FAQs • Bexar County, TX • CivicEngage

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What’s the difference between a Public Defender and a Court appointed attorney?: Members of the private bar may be appointed to represent accused persons who cannot afford to hire a lawyer. The difference is the Public Defender’s Office is a department within Bexar County. A court can appoint the Public Defender’s Office to represent accused persons who do not have the money to hire a lawyer.

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Public Defender - FAQs

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1. Do I have a Public Defender or Court appointed attorney?: If the Public Defender’s Office is appointed, you will receive a letter from the Public Defender’s Office or if you are in jail, you will get a visit from your Public Defender within 72 hours.

2. What’s the difference between a Public Defender and a Court appointed attorney?: Members of the private bar may be appointed to represent accused persons who cannot afford to hire a lawyer. The difference is the Public Defender’s Office is a department within Bexar County. A court can appoint the Public Defender’s Office to represent accused persons who do not have the money to hire a lawyer.

3. If I am in jail, how will my Public Defender contact me?: Your Public Defender will visit you on video within 72 hours.

4. Can I hire or change to a Public Defender?: The Public Defender’s Office does not take applications nor can they be hired. Public Defenders are assigned by the Courts or Pretrial Services.