Legal Question in Criminal Law in Oregon

I have a mental illness (Bipolar Disorder), and I have been in the psyche ward twice within the last 2 1/2 weeks. The first time I was in there they took me off my anti depressants and switched me to a mood stabilizer that I feel reacted badly with me. Within 2 days I was taken in again on disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and assault on a public safety officer. My question is, should I hire my own attorney that has more experience with this, or take my public defender? I have absolutely no money or job and I'm in the process of trying to file for SSI.


Asked on 7/28/10, 5:07 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

If you can somehow afford a good private attorney, you will probably be better off with one on your side. Most public defenders are very fine lawyers, but they are overworked and cannot put enough time into each case. A comparably good private attorney will probably do a much better job for you. Even a private lawyer who isn't as good but who has time may be able to out-perform a public defender who is always under the gun.

Good luck.

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Answered on 8/02/10, 5:16 pm


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