Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Need good criminal attorney ASAP

I just learned that an arrest warrant has been issued for me for Grand Theft/Embezzlement. I made the deadly, ignorant and fearful mistake of talking to an investigative detective when he unexpectedly showed up at my door out of the blue. I called a number of attorneys whose fees are extraordinary and way out of my range. I was pointed to the Public Defender's office who was dismissive with me but did set up a court date. They advised that I stay away from my home this holiday and weekend through Wednesday (the earliest court date she got) with no guarantee that I won't be arrested at work Monday or Tuesday before court.

I'm scared to death. I am sole income provider for my little family (my 2 yr old daughter, mother, and myself). I have a very limited income but can scrape together $400 upfront and $400/month to pay for an attorney if someone is willing to work with me. With current economic crisis, no banks are granting personal loans and I have no assets to liquidate except for an old engagement ring.

I have no criminal past whatsoever. This is a first time offense and I'm ill over it. I need sincere help from someone good and willing to work with someone with limited resources.

Please help.


Asked on 11/26/08, 10:31 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Need good criminal attorney ASAP

Mr. Moschopoulos is right. No lawyer is likely to accept the terms you propose. At that rate, it would take you months to pay for a single day's work. Since taking your case to trial will probably involve a lot of work, your lawyer would have to be willing to wait years for her payment. That just isn't realistic.

If you can't come up with more money, go with the public defender. What Mr. Moschopoulos said about them is exactly right -- they tend to be very fine attorneys, but they are overworked and can't give enough time to their clients. If your only choices are a free, overworked lawyer or no lawyer at all, the decision should not be a hard one.

Good luck.

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Answered on 11/28/08, 12:41 am
George Moschopoulos The Law Office of George Moschopoulos

Re: Need good criminal attorney ASAP

Unfortunately, the economy has hit everyone hard. Not many attorneys would accept the payment terms you outlined. Some might, but most probably won't. If you are serious about hiring a private defense attorney, then I suggest you find the money from other sources such as loans from friends or family. Alternatively, don't inherently distrust or fear the public defender. They are very experienced attorneys as they are in court almost every day. The only drawback is that they tend to be overworked. Besides, if you cannot raise the money, they are your only option.

Best of Luck!

www.NotGuiltyInCA.com

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Answered on 11/26/08, 10:48 pm


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