Michigan DWI Attorney Paul J. Tafelski Explains the Difference Between a DUI Public Defender and a Private Lawyer

Michigan DWI attorney Paul J. Tafelski (https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/blog/dui-public-defender-vs-private-attorney/) releases a new article explaining the difference between a DUI public defender and a private lawyer. The lawyer mentions that anyone who is accused of a crime in the United States has the right to an attorney. A famous part of the Miranda warning includes “if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.” However, the court will ultimately charge the defendant some fee for use of the public defender.

According to the Michigan DWI attorney, “Michigan does not have a single, unified public defender system. Instead, each county decides on its own how to organize, appoint, and pay attorneys who represent criminal defendants who cannot afford their own lawyer. Historically, it has been a very troubled system. In 2008, the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA)—a nationwide advocacy group for legal representation of indigent criminal defendants—issued a scathing assessment of Michigan’s patchwork public defender system.”

Attorney Paul Tafelski adds that there are a lot of smart and hard-working attorneys out there, but they may not be able to provide a customized defense as private attorneys do. This is because of the amount of work they have to finish. They may also not look for other ways to “win” the case if they feel like it cannot be “won”.

“There is one other significant difference between a private attorney and a public defender. You pay the private attorney out of your own pocket (although many defense attorneys will work with their clients to find ways to manage the cost). But just because you don’t pay a public defender doesn’t mean the defender’s services come for free. Not, at least, when you take the potential cost of a DUI conviction into account,” says the DWI lawyer.

Another difference between a public defender and a private attorney is the level of resources and expertise that each can bring to a case. Private attorneys often have access to a wider range of resources and may be able to hire expert witnesses or conduct more thorough investigations into the facts of a case. This can be especially important in complex DUI cases, where the outcome can depend on the ability to present a strong defense.

It is important to note that both public defenders and private attorneys are able to provide competent legal representation in DUI cases. However, individuals facing DUI charges should carefully consider their options and determine which type of lawyer is best suited to their needs and circumstances.

Lastly, attorney Paul Tafelski emphasizes the importance of having a skilled lawyer when facing charges of DUI. Having an experienced attorney may be able to help the defendant understand their rights and protect their freedom.

About Michigan Defense Law

Michigan Defense Law is a firm that takes the presumption of innocence very seriously. Every client deserves competent legal representation. No matter if someone is facing a felony or misdemeanor charge, the lawyers at Michigan Defense Law will work hard to vigorously defend the client and achieve the best outcome for them. Call Michigan Defense Law today at (248) 451 2200 to schedule a consultation.

Paul J. Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law | Criminal Attorney and DUI Lawyer

2525 S Telegraph Rd suite 100, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, United States

(248) 451-2200