How can I get the service of a Public Defender?

In order to qualify for the services of the Humboldt County Public Defender's Office, you have to be considered "indigent". Indigency is generally defined as not having enough resources to hire a private attorney. That decision is made by the Court and the judge presiding over the case and is based upon your current financial circumstances, including an examination of a person's financial assets and liabilities. Most people, even if they qualify as indigent, are asked to make some financial contribution to the County for the services of the Public Defender, normally between $250 and $1000.

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1. How do I find out if I have been appointed a Public Defender?
2. How can I get the service of a Public Defender?
3. I have been told I have a Conflict Attorney, what does that mean?
4. How can I contact my conflict attorney?
5. If I am arrested for drug possession, is there a way to have my criminal case dismissed?
6. What can I expect if I am arrested?
7. What is probation and what happens if I violate it?
8. What is bail?
9. If I am arrested, should I talk to the police?
10. If the police don't read me my rights, can I get my case dismissed?
11. What is an Arraignment?
12. What is a preliminary hearing?
13. What if I fail to appear at my hearing?
14. What do I do if I know I have a warrant?
15. What do I do if I am picked up on a warrant?
16. Can the Public Defender's Office represent me on my traffic ticket?
17. How do I get my case investigated?
18. How do I find someone who is in the Humboldt County Jail?
19. How can I visit someone who is in the Humboldt County Detention Center?
20. How do I visit a state prison?
21. Are Public Defenders attorneys?
22. What is the difference between a Public Defender and a District Attorney?
23. Can I file my own motions in court?
24. If I am a victim of a crime, can the Public Defender's Office represent me?
25. Do Public Defenders have the same obligations as private attorneys?
26. What happens if I am charged with a juvenile offense?
27. What should I do if I am in a abusive situation?
28. What should I do if my family breaks up?
29. If juvenile charges are filed against you, you have the right to a lawyer
30. How does a juvenile case start?
31. What happens if I am arrested (juvenile)?
32. What is a detention hearing (Juvenile)?
33. What should I wear to my hearing?
34. What is a plea hearing (Juvenile)?
35. What is a dispositional hearing (Juvenile)?
36. What is emancipation?