Public defender or private DUI lawyer?

Compare eligibility, availability, scope, communication, and whether a separate license-agency matter is covered. Public defenders are licensed lawyers; private counsel is not automatically better.

Bring these records

  • Public-defender eligibility information
  • Court appointment paperwork
  • Private fee proposals
  • License-hearing notice
  • Upcoming court date

Questions to compare

  • Do I qualify for appointed counsel?
  • Does appointed representation include the license-agency matter?
  • Who handles communication and appearances?
  • What differences in scope—not marketing—matter to my case?

Verify independently

Confirm license status and public discipline through the relevant state lawyer-licensing authority. This site does not rank, endorse, or verify individual lawyers and does not promise case outcomes.