Do I really need an attorney for a DUI Charge?

The decision as to retain a private attorney or be represented by a public defender is a personal one, which you must make. Like everything else in life there are good/bad private attorneys and good/bad public defenders. The main differences are: 1. you are able to choose your private attorney and fire him if you do not think he is doing a good job defending you 2. with a public defender you have no input into who you get and it is usually extremely difficult to have your public defender replaced with another public defender, if you are not comfortable with him/her 3. due to the case load of most, if not all, public defenders, your appointed attorney may not have the time to explain everything to you that you need to know or answer all your questions 4. a private attorney can give you the "personal" touch you may want and should have the time to explain everything to you and answer all of your questions. There are pros and cons to either choice, but these are the main differences. Good luck.

Nah, throw on your favorite tavern jacket and head on down to Court.

Unlikely. PD's can't and won't even touch your DMV matter, which is just as important. Also, guess what kinds of PD's handle misdemeanors? The rookies. Do yourself a favor and hire a DUI specialist.

You get what you pay for.

Generally, you'll get what you pay for. Depending on your circumstances, I would at least speak with a private attorney to determine whether or not there is anything we can be done in your situation. Also be aware that in most jurisdictions assigned counsel billed the county and eventually the county makes you pay the bill in any case when you are able.

If you qualify for a public defender you are getting an attorney. The quality of representation will vary from county to county, attorney to attorney and is impacted significantly by the case load of your attorney. If you can hire a private attorney they usually have more time to focus on your case and build a defense, they have time to meet with you and discuss your case in advance, they can take your calls they can defend you at the DMV and most importantly, if you hire a DUI attorney you get a lawyer with specialized training and experience who can get you the best possible outcome.