Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Re: Can I pay for friend's representation?

Of course you can. But remember:

1 The lawyer will represent your friend and not you.

2 You are advised not to discuses the details as you may be called as a witness.

3 If a fee of over $10,000 is paid, in cash, the lawyer is required to report it to the ISR..

4 Since restitution may be an issue you may want to allocate funds for that part of the case.

Re: Can I pay for friend's representation?

Yes you can, but you have to understand that the lawyer will only be representing the client. The ethical obligation is to the client.

Savy Grant

Re: Can I pay for friend's representation?

I agree with the three answers that have been posted on this question. I do suggest that you do not have your friend brief on what is going on, since there is no privilege as to conversations between you and your friend. If you wound up getting called as a witness that could be a problem.

Re: Can I pay for friend's representation?

Unless you are a codefendant in the same case as your friend, I do not see a problem. Assuming that your friend consents to your paying his attorney's fee, I do not see a problem.

Re: Can I pay for friend's representation?

Your friend appears to be charged with a felony. A conviction can bring time as well as restitution. Contribute to your friend's defense because he needs it. Do not discuss this matter with your friend any further than stating that you are contributing to defense costs. Best luck to your friend. Hiring an attorney is advised.

G. Joseph Holthaus III, Esq.

(410) 799-9002

(410) 619-5918 (voicemail)

Re: Can I pay for friend's representation?

You can pay, or contribute to your friend's attorney's fee. However, the lawyer has no obligation to you, but to his client, your friend. Because of attorney client privilege, the lawyer will not be able to brief you on what is happening with your friends case, however, your friend can tell you anything.