When someone is arrested, one of the first things they hear during their Miranda rights is, “If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you.”

While this statement is true, public defenders are not completely free.

1. You’ll Still Be Charged a Fee

If you qualify for a public defender, you won’t pay the same fees as hiring a private attorney, but there’s usually a small fee assessed by the court.

This cost often gets added to court costs or fines at the end of your case, even if you were assigned a public defender due to financial hardship.

2. The Difference Between Public Defenders and Private Attorneys

Public defenders are skilled and hardworking attorneys who represent many people at once. But because of heavy caseloads and limited time, they may not be able to give your case the individual attention it deserves.

A private criminal defense attorney, on the other hand, has the flexibility to:

Limit their caseload to devote more time to your case

Offer direct communication and personalized strategies

Provide resources to investigate, negotiate, and build a strong defense

At Izquierdo Law Firm, we believe in empowering clients through education and preparation. Every case matters, and every client deserves a defense that’s personal and focused.

Do You Find Yourself In Need Of A Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If your loved one was recently arrested in Miami-Dade, don’t wait. Please feel free to contact me online or to call my Coral Gables office directly at 305.707.7345. Schedule a Free 4-Point Case Evaluation & Defense Strategy Session with Izquierdo Law Firm today and get the guidance you deserve. You can also request my free book "The Ultimate Guide To Fighting Criminal Charges In Florida", a detailed download discussing the myths, rumors and hearsay often associated with criminal charges, what to expect from your criminal court proceedings and important steps you must take to battle your charges.