When a person is charged with a federal crime and is financially unable to hire a lawyer, the court will appoint one at no cost. This is a right guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution and implemented through the Criminal Justice Act.

A federal magistrate judge will review your financial situation to determine if you qualify. If eligible, an attorney from our office or a qualified private attorney from the CJA panel will be assigned to represent you.

Your appointed attorney will represent you with the same dedication and skill as a privately retained lawyer. There is no difference in the quality of representation.

How the Process Works

• Arrest & Initial Appearance
  After a federal arrest, you will appear before a federal magistrate judge, usually within 24–48 hours.

• Financial Eligibility Review
  The magistrate judge reviews your financial affidavit to determine whether you qualify for court-appointed counsel.

• Attorney Assignment
  If eligible, the court assigns a Federal Public Defender or a private CJA panel attorney to your case.

• Attorney-Client Meeting
  Your appointed attorney will meet with you to discuss your case, explain the charges, and begin building your defense.