QUESTION
Do you need an ID for a Public Defender?
Asked on May 06th, 2013 on Criminal Law - California
More details to this question:
I have a friend who is going through some hardships right now and is jobless and homeless for the better part of a month. While sick, he attempted to shoplift some pepto and got caught. He has no money and his ID is expired. He was told that in order to get a public defender he had to have a valid ID otherwise, he couldn't get one. Is that right? I thought the point of PD was for people who couldn't afford a lawyer, or just flat broke. His court date is coming up sometime next week, a timely response is needed. Thank you in advance!
3 ANSWERS
Divorce & Separation Attorney serving Jacksonville, NC
Partner at
The Houser Law Firm, P.C.
2 Awards
That may be be case for a Public Defender but he is entitled to representation and the Court will appoint someone if he is indigent.
Answered on May 08th, 2013 at 6:08 AM
Alexis Anne Plunkett
This absolutely does not sound correct even those people illegally in the United States can get a public defender. Your friend should demand access to an attorney despite the ID situation.
Answered on May 08th, 2013 at 5:48 AM
Geoffrey MacLaren Yaryan
To qualify for a PD you don't need an ID, however establishing whether you don't have sufficient funds to hire a private attorney you may need proof of income which could include some identification to confirm insufficient income.
Answered on May 08th, 2013 at 4:20 AM