Facing criminal charges is overwhelming. You’re scared, confused, and probably wondering what to do next. One of the first decisions you’ll have to make is: Should I hire a private attorney or go with a public defender? It’s a fair question, especially if you're in Miami-Dade County, where arrests happen daily and the stakes can be incredibly high.
At Izquierdo Law Firm, we believe in educating and empowering you from the very start. Whether you were charged with DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, or a serious federal crime, you deserve to understand how your legal representation can affect your outcome.
Public Defender vs. Private Attorney: What's the Difference?
1. Caseloads and Time
"As a public defender, I had a very high volume of cases. As a private attorney, I have more time to dedicate to my clients."
Alessandra Arias, Attorney at Izquierdo Law Firm
Public defenders are often passionate, dedicated attorneys, but they’re assigned dozens of cases at once. That kind of volume makes it hard to give each case the attention it deserves.
Private attorneys, on the other hand, limit the number of clients they take. That means more time for strategy, evidence review, and communicating with you.
2. Resources and Support
A private defense firm typically has additional staff and tools to help support your case, from legal assistants to investigators. Public defenders don’t usually have the same level of backup, which can delay responses or limit how thoroughly they investigate your case.
3. Strategy and Personalization
A public defender may need to resolve cases quickly, often pushing toward a plea deal simply due to time constraints. A private attorney can afford to dig deeper, explore more options, and customize your defense strategy based on your unique situation and goals.
4. Choice
Public defenders are assigned to you. You don't get to interview them or decide if they’re the right fit. With a private attorney, you have the power to choose someone who aligns with your values, communication style, and approach to your defense.
5. Accountability and Outcomes
Private attorneys run a business, your case matters to their reputation. That creates an extra layer of accountability, where your success is directly tied to their own.
When a Public Defender Makes Sense
If you absolutely cannot afford a private attorney, it’s important to know that a public defender will be appointed to you, and that’s your right. In some cases, public defenders can and do achieve great outcomes, especially for lower-level offenses or when the prosecution is open to quick resolution.
But if you're facing serious charges, especially ones that could carry long-term consequences, a private attorney may give you the time, resources, and strategic planning you need for the best possible outcome.
Bottom line, you only get one shot at your defense. If you're wondering whether hiring a private attorney is worth it, let’s talk. We’ll treat your case like it matters, because to us, it does.
You Don’t Have to Decide Alone
We get it, this is a hard decision. That’s why we offer a Free 4-Point Case Evaluation and Defense Strategy Session. During this session, we’ll go over your case, walk you through your options, and help you understand how hiring a private criminal defense attorney could benefit you.
📞 Call Izquierdo Law Firm at 305-707-7345 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
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