If I was denied an attorney and can’t afford a lawyer, what do I do?
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If I was denied an attorney and can’t afford a lawyer, what do I do?
I got charged with 3 grams possesion of marijuana. It’s my first offence but I can’t afford an attorney. Is it possible to do it myself or do I need a lawyer?
Asked on July 17, 2017 under Criminal Law, Michigan
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Legally it is *possible* to do this yourself--you have the right to represent yourself pro se, or as your own attorney. Practically, doing so is a bad idea. You could potentially face up to 1 year in prison and a $2,000 fine; while you'd likely get significantly less than that, at least some jail time is not at all impossible. Clearly though, you like to avoid that. A local defense attorney will know the law, know the rules of court and evidence, and know the prosecutor and judge; he or she will have a much better change of minimizing your punishment, and possibly even getting the case dismissed, than you do. Even if you have to borrow from friends or family, you should have a lawyer for a drug charge.
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