Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: Burglary

Public defender or not, it is your responsibility to get for your daughter the best attorney you can.

Unfortunately, no, the fees for the bracelet will not be reimbursed.

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

Re: Burglary

I share Ms. O'Connor's reaction to Mr. Stone's comment. Most PDs are very good lawyers. The problem is that they are overworked and don't have enough time to give to each of their cases. A privately-retained attorney would probably have much more time to devote to your daughter's case, and that can make a real difference.

Re: Burglary

You're allowing your own daughter to be represented by the public defender??!?

Re: Burglary

The answer to your question is no, the fees will not be reimbursed.

In response to Attorney Michael Stones' insinuation that a public defender is necessarily a bad thing, I would suggest you speak to the assigned public defender and decide for yourself.

I worked as a public defender in Los Angeles County for 9 years with a decent trial track record. I owe my success in trials to my wonderful colleagues who trained and mentored me. If I was ever charged with a crime, I would put my fate in the hands of many of my former colleagues. Some of the best trial lawyers in the state work in PD offices. Of course, as with any organization, some will not be as good.

You should always do your own research, whether you hire a private attorney or use the services of a public defender. (Some private lawyers are hacks.)

You can go to calbar.ca.gov and search the lawyer by name. It will tell you how long the attorney has been in practice, what law school they went to, and if they had any disciplinary actions.

Talk to your daughter's attorney if you have concerns about how the case is progressing.