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March 18, 2013

When You Need a Lawyer

Looking for a Lawyer

I have been accused of a crime, and I cannot afford a lawyer. What can I do?

If the government accuses you of committing a crime, the United States Constitution guarantees you the right to be represented by a lawyer in any case in which you could be incarcerated for six months or more. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the judge handling the case will either appoint a private lawyer to represent you free of charge or the government's public defender will handle your case, also at no charge.

>>Where should I start to look for a lawyer?
>>What about a local referral service?
>>How do I go about choosing a lawyer?
>>Are there any practical considerations to keep in mind when choosing a lawyer?
>>I may want to hire a lawyer, but I do not have much money. Where can I find low-cost legal help?
>>I have been accused of a crime, and I cannot afford a lawyer. What can I do?


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