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What’s the Difference Between a Public Defender and a Private Attorney? Criminal Lawyer explains

What’s the difference between a public defender and a private attorney in Fort Lauderdale and South Florida?

The biggest differences between a public defender and a private criminal defense attorney are the time and the resources they have.

A public defender is employed by the state of Florida. Florida Public Defenders are required to take every case assigned to them. 

What does that mean? It means public defenders have a HUGE caseload. They might be assigned to upwards of 200 cases at a time. 

And the more cases a public defender has, the less time they are going to spend on your criminal case. Public Defenders can be great lawyers – we know many public defenders that we respect greatly and do a fantastic job.

But, as stated above – the issue isn’t that they’re not great lawyers nor capable – the issue is that they simply don’t have the time to devote to your case that a private attorney will have. Public defenders don’t have the resource of time to spend as much time as is needed for the best result on your case. They may spend all the time they CAN on your case – but it doesn’t mean that’s the same as giving your case all the time & attention it needs. Not because they’re not great lawyers, but simply because the state gives them an unrealistic case load.

A public defender might miss a critical element just because they’re so bogged down with other cases. Also—a public defender gets paid the same amount no matter how many cases they get stuck with, or how many cases they win/lose. They don’t have the same incentive to help you – they’re not rewarded monetarily with big case wins, and are not paid more if they have a larger case load.  They also don’t have a business based on referrals – which means they might not have as many amicable relationships with prosecutors or other attorneys.

You want a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney who has a long-term interest in your success, and unfortunately, public defenders don’t. Mostly because they don’t have the time to, and there are not the same reward or relational mechanisms in place to reward them getting you the best possible case outcome as a private attorney.

Another main point to consider is that a private attorney has to work for and earn the trust of every client who hires them. Whereas a public defender is simply assigned cases. They don’t have to work to get you, or to keep you, as a client.

Public defenders in South Florida also have fewer resources than private attorneys. Their means of helping you are limited by what the state gives them access to. They don’t have an array of superior resources available such as private investigators, for example, the way a private attorney in Florida does.

The best legal defenses take a lot of careful time and research. That’s why you are better off going with a private criminal attorney –one who can devote as much time as is necessary to win your case, or at least ensure you get the best possible result, and who has the resources to get the job done right.

Give us a call today to schedule a criminal defense free consultation:

  • Fort Lauderdale: (754) 206-6200
  • Sunrise: (754) 999-2499 
  • Boca Raton: (561) 880-8181
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How We Win
Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
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kevin tabronkevin tabron
00:07 08 Sep 22
In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
Jason HigleyJason Higley
15:24 26 Aug 22
I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
Felix I HFelix I H
13:27 28 Jul 22
Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.
Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
12:32 09 May 22
I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
20:27 23 Mar 22
My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
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