Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

my brother is looking at 16-life prison sentence. my brother wants to hire a lawyer, but his pro bono lawyer said he cannot hire a new lawyer. this is my brothers life and he needs to know what his rights are as a jailed inmate.


Asked on 3/18/10, 12:38 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Marshall Law Office of Robert L, Marshall

He can hire any attorney he wants if he can afford the fees... with some limits.

A defendant cannot change lawyers at the last minute if it would unreasonably delay the case. For example, if your brother just decided to hire a new lawyer shortly before his trial was scheduled to begin, the judge would not be required to delay the trial to give the new lawyer time to get up to speed.

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Answered on 3/23/10, 8:04 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

He can hire anyone he likes to substitute in. All it takes is money. If he is serious about doing so, feel free to contact me. There is no guarantee the court would continue the trial date, but it is possible.

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Answered on 3/23/10, 11:30 am


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