Is there such thing as a court appointed attorney for a Clerk Magistrate “show cause” hearing or do I have to hire one?
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Is there such thing as a court appointed attorney for a Clerk Magistrate “show cause” hearing or do I have to hire one?
I’m an uninsured driver from NH (insurance not needed) that struck a 12 y/o at night after being chased by friends in front of my car in MA where it is a crime to not be insured. I did not know this and I’m only in MA a couple times per month. I have insurance now and my citation is only for being uninsured. I think I may need an attorney but I can not afford one for this hearing. Is there such thing as a court appointed attorney for a Clerk’s Hearing?
Asked on July 2, 2009 under Accident Law, Massachusetts
Answers:
R.S.T., Member, NY Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
If you're not being arraigned for a crime, where you could end up imprisoned or facing a substantial fine then you do not have a right to a court-appointed attorney in most states for this type of hearing. But I would call the court and inquire. Maybe
R.S.T., Member, NY Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
If you're not being arraigned for a crime, where you could end up imprisoned or facing a substantial fine then you do not have a right to a court-appointed attorney in most states for this type of hearing. But I would call the court and inquire. Maybe
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