CanIget an attorney prior to myfirst court appearancefor a felony charge?
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CanIget an attorney prior to myfirst court appearancefor a felony charge?
I have been charged with possession of stolen laptop. I had found the laptop in the library. I got a call from the police station and was naive to think that the owner had been found. Before I noticed, I was being read my rights. I’m a thriving 18 year old student with a clean record. This is my first time offense. I was panicking during the investigation and panicked in trying to defend myself. I had to ask for a couple seconds to collect myself before I could give a written statement. Can I still get a lawyer, even a public defender? If so,should I do so before the first appearance?
Asked on March 19, 2011 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
It would be advisable for you to have an attorney prior to your first court appearance in order to give the attorney additional time to become familiar with your case, prepare for your court appearance, and begin discovery. Discovery is the process of obtaining information regarding your case from the district attorney and police.
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