Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

can my attorney-in-fact represent me in a criminal proceeding

Is it possible use a limited power of attorney in order to appoint a non-attorney friend of mine to be my attorney-in-fact, then take my right of self-representation and have him, as my attorney-in-fact, act on my behalf and present my case. Is this possible?

I'm not paying him anything of course, he has been a very good friend of mine for over ten years who is very well spoken and is always able get his point across to other people very easily. I have the factual basis to win my case, but i don't have the communication skills (i'm not handicapped) i just can't talk in front of groups of people, especially in high stress situations when i'm nervous. The more nervous i get the worse it is, my thoughts will start to cloud up and i can't even think of what i was trying to say.

I have one hundred percent confidence in my friend. Will he be able to represent me using this power of attorney?


Asked on 7/27/02, 8:16 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
William Morrison Action Defense Center

Re: can my attorney-in-fact represent me in a criminal proceeding

No. Any attempt to represent you would not be allowed by the judge. Additionally, if your friend acted as though he were your attorney, he may be prosecuted for the unauthorized practice of law ( a felony).

If you are experiencing difficulty in deciding whether to retain counsel, I can assist you in reaching a decision at no charge. Call me @ 248 680 1133

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Answered on 7/29/02, 11:15 am


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