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  1. #1

    Question Benefit of Private Defense Attorney for a Robbery

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: New York (NYC)

    Hi all,

    My brother, let's call him John, robbed someone last year. Probably with the aid of another and probably with the threat of a weapon of some sort. He's been in jail for the past 9 months (still there), a trial has since started, and is using a public defendant.

    John has several misdemeanors already on his records including grand larceny (that actually might be a felony). So this is unfortunately not new at all. He has pleaded not guilty to the initial offer of 5 years and the next offer of 8 years. John is now 21 years old.

    My question are as follows:
    1. Is it too late to seek a private defense attorney?
    2. What would be the benefit of a private defense attorney for a case like this?
    3. What is the usual outcome for a case like this?

    Notes:
    We have no dealings with the law and are ignorant of things criminal justice. My parents have had a change of heart and are wondering what's possible (cost benefit analysis). Bail is set quite high ($20k+), though not impossible. The idea that spending money will somehow influence the legal system for what appears to be an open and shut case is foreign to me. (Let me know if I am wrong.)

    Thanks in advance.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Sep 2011
    Location
    OH10
    Posts
    17,019

    Default Re: Benefit of Private Defense Attorney for a Robbery

    It is never too late to hire a lawyer until the trial is over. As a repeat offender, he should be doing time if convicted. A deal should also involve time. High bail for a repeat offender is not unusual.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2009
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    6,808

    Default Re: Benefit of Private Defense Attorney for a Robbery

    Your brother would benefit greatly from a Private Lawyer. I don't know if it is too late or not....but most criminal defense lawyers will offer a free consultation, so ask upfront if it is too late, let the lawyer know the trial has started....

    Difference between a Public Defender and Private Lawyer is that the Private Lawyer will have more time to dedicate to your brothers case.

    Even though it appears to be an open and shut case, your brother does have the right to take things to trial - it is asking the state to prove their case.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Location
    Massachusetts
    Posts
    24,521

    Default Re: Benefit of Private Defense Attorney for a Robbery

    I don't believe you can change lawyers after the trial has started without the permission of the court.

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