4 ms·

I'm confused what "does not qualify for a public defender" could possibly mean.

• hxc 14y ago
  Normally public defenders are for those who want representation but cannot afford a top dollar lawyer. The state pays public defenders and the defendant pay the court a fee based on their income. It is your right to have an attorney/representation.
  • rprasad 14y ago
    No, public defenders are for those who cannot afford representation, period (though some jurisdictions do distinguish between misdemeanors and felonies for this purpose, as felony defense is significantly more expensive). Defendants never pay for the services of a public defender. Also, the right to representation is limited to criminal [edit] proceedings [/edit].
  • jlgreco 14y ago
    "If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you"...
• rprasad 14y ago
  It means he makes too much income each year to qualify for a public defender. Most jurisdictions have an income cut-off for determining who gets the services of public defenders.