Facing gun charges is an incredibly serious and daunting experience. Who you choose to represent you at the early stages can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. If you find yourself facing gun charges in the Philadelphia area or South Jersey, you may be wondering whether you should ask for a public defender or seek out the representation of a private lawyer. Each choice comes with its own set of positives and negatives, and it’s important to evaluate your unique circumstances to make an informed decision.
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in Greater Philadelphia or Southern New Jersey, turn to the trusted and experienced criminal defense team at the Law Offices of E. William Hevenor. We are ready to start fighting for you today.
Public Defender: The Pros and Cons
Public defenders are attorneys appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford a private lawyer.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Public defenders provide representation that is subsidized in whole or in part by the government. For individuals who meet the financial eligibility criteria, the public defender’s representation will cost little to nothing.
- Experience in Criminal Law: Public defenders are often (but not always) seasoned professionals with extensive experience practicing criminal law. They are also intimately familiar with the local legal system and may have handled many cases similar to yours.
Cons:
- Heavy Caseload: Working as a public defender, while rewarding, comparatively doesn’t pay as well as private practice. Because of this, and because of a lack of funding, public defenders are often overworked, and their offices are understaffed. To meet the needs of the area they work in, public defenders often have to juggle many cases simultaneously, and can only devote limited time and attention to each case.
- Limited Resources: It’s no secret that public defender offices are critically underfunded, especially when compared to private law firms. This lack of funding can impact their ability to conduct thorough investigations and hire expert witnesses or investigative support.
- No Choice: Public defenders are assigned to their cases and have little discretion over who they represent and for what charges. The client they are representing does not have the opportunity to interview multiple public defenders to find the best possible fit.
Private Lawyer: The Pros and Cons
Hiring a private lawyer for your gun charge defense offers a different set of advantages and challenges.
Pros:
- Personalized Attention: Private attorneys typically handle fewer cases with fewer deadlines. Moreover, private attorneys can choose how many cases they take, rather than having to compensate for an understaffed office. This allows private attorneys to provide more personalized attention to each client. Private attorneys are more accessible for questions or issues as they arise, and can tailor their services to your unique needs, circumstances, and goals.
- Resources and Expertise: Private law firms have more resources at their disposal, including the financial resources to hire investigators and expert witnesses. This can lead to a much more thorough and effective defense strategy.
- Finding the Right Fit: Unlike a public defender, you won’t be assigned a private lawyer. You will have the opportunity to contact multiple attorneys to discuss their services, allowing you to choose the attorney that best aligns with your needs and goals.
Cons:
- Cost: Hiring a private lawyer can be expensive, and the financial burden is often a determinative factor for many individuals. However, many experienced attorneys offer reasonable rates. With the potential for long-term consequences, investing in a skilled private attorney for your gun charge defense may be worth the price tag.
- Varied Experience: Not all private lawyers specialize in criminal defense the way a public defender does, and the level of experience can vary. It’s important to look for a lawyer with significant experience, not only in criminal law, but handling firearm cases, with a proven track record of success.
Contact an Experienced Philadelphia and South Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one are facing gun charges, turn to a trusted Philadelphia and South Jersey criminal defense firm. The Law Offices of E. William Hevenor is ready to start fighting for you today. We pride ourselves on offering comprehensive criminal defense services at a reasonable price. Contact us or call us today at (610)-251-9930. We will stop at nothing to secure the best possible outcome.