Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Most public defenders are very good at what they do. But they are also overworked, so they can't give each case as much time as they should.

Many private defense attorneys are also very good, but some are mediocre and some are not good at all. It can be hard to tell which lawyers are worth their fees and which aren't.

If you can afford private counsel, you aren't eligible for a public defender. But perhaps you have friends or family who will help finance your defense. If so, you may want to hire a defense attorney. But do some research before you decide who to hire. And don't let the amount of various lawyers' fees be the deciding factor, since some very good lawyers are relatively inexpensive and some bad ones cost quite a bit.

Good luck.

Some public defenders are very good. The problem is that you don't get to choose which public defender you get. With private attorneys you get to interview several and pick one that best your temperament and your needs. Therefore if you can afford one you are probably better off with a private attorney.