Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

For $2,000, no. The family might be able to get about one day of a privately-retained lawyer's time for that sum, and one day is not enough to learn the case history, research the applicable law, advise the client and put up much of a fight. If that's the best they can do, they should come to terms with their son being represented by the public defender.

Fwiw, most public defenders are very good lawyers. The problem with relying on one is that they don't have enough time for each of their clients. Since the family can't pay a private lawyer to give their son enough time either, I see little reason to prefer that option.

If they can't afford to hire private counsel, and $2k is quite insufficient, then stick with the Public Defender. Criminal defense is not done on pro bono or discount basis BECAUSE the Public Defender is available. That's what our taxes pay for.

I've done criminal defense work on felonies for $1,000.00. The other responses to your inquiry were ridiculous. Your post is sincere, and I can tell that you want the best for this kid. I couldn't give you an exact quote without reviewing the matter. I can tell you that public defenders are pretty good, but I have also been hired before as private counsel to make the public defender perform their job to the utmost of their abilities. Law involves people, with different personalities and attitudes. It is not a vending machine, and you do not always get what you want.

I agree with Mr. Roach's response. Every attorney is different and some may be willing to help more than others. I also agree with what all the responses stated regarding Public Defenders. They are usually very good. The problem is their time is very limited. However, the know the law, they know they system and they know the DA's in the county.

An excellent criminal defense attorney in Southern California is Patricia Boag and her contact information is:

BOAG LAW OFFICES

200 N. Main St. 2nd Fl.

Santa Ana, CA 92701

(714) 953-5211 - Telephone

(714) 973-4892 - Fax

She is an excellent and works hard for her clients. I have no idea of what she would charge for the case, but give her a call and find out. She is never closed minded.

Good Luck

Brian McGinity