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Tip #7: Charges involving a possible jail sentence. If you have been charged with an offense that could result in a jail sentence, you have a right to be represented by an attorney. You can waive that right however, and be tried without an attorney by signing a waiver. If you want an attorney to represent you, the judge will continue the case to allow you the opportunity to hire an attorney. If you want an attorney but cannot afford one, the judge will continue the case and allow you the chance to meet with the public defender to see if you qualify for the public defender's services. The public defender is hired by the city or state to represent people who do not have enough money to hire a private attorney. If you do not qualify for the public defender, you will need to either hire a private attorney, or be prepared to be tried by the judge without an attorney. If you qualify and use the public defender and are found guilty, you must pay the city or state for the use of the public defender.

Tip #8: Personally appear in court on the new court date. If the court grants you a continuance, make sure that you appear in court on time on that new court date. If you do not, the court might find you guilty in your absence and/or might issue a warrant for your arrest for your failure to appear.

DISCLAIMER: David A. Cardon is an attorney at the Virginia Beach office of Cardon and Goodman, P.C. who concentrates his legal practice in traffic, criminal, and personal injury law. Mr. Cardon provides the materials contained above as a public service and on an informational basis only. These materials are not intended to be a comprehensive statement of Virginia law, and are not intended to convey legal advice. If you have a legal problem, you should consult with an attorney in your area who can investigate the particular circumstances of your situation. You can contact David Cardon, Esquire at (757) 306-9060 or dcardon@cglawfirm.net.

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