Public Defender Eligibility Criteria

Summary

Public defenders in South Carolina are provided to those who cannot afford private attorneys, based on income, assets, charge seriousness, and private attorney costs. If denied, you may have exceeded financial limits. For criminal matters, contact the South Carolina Commission on Indigent Defense. For civil matters, reach out to South Carolina Legal Services.

Full Conversation

I am not working and I depend on my mother who is disabled. I am currently residing with her. I was told by The south Carolinas public defenders that I am not eligible to get one
In South Carolina, public defenders are provided to individuals who cannot afford a private attorney. However, the court makes the final decision based on certain criteria:
- Your income and assets
- The seriousness of the charge
- The estimated cost of a private attorney
If you were denied, you might have exceeded the financial limits. Consider seeking legal advice from a local legal aid organization.
can you give me a legal aid organization for a lawyer in south carolina
Sure, you can reach out to South Carolina Legal Services. They provide free legal services in a wide range of civil legal matters to eligible low-income residents.

South Carolina Legal Services


Phone: *-*-*-*
Website: www.sclegal.org
this is for a criminal matter
I understand, for criminal matters you can contact the South Carolina Commission on Indigent Defense. They may be able to help you.

South Carolina Commission on Indigent Defense


Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.sccid.sc.gov