Date: Sun, 8 Mar 92 13:55:28 EST
From: The Advocate <
[email protected]>
Subject: File 3--Readers Reply: Apology to Craig Neidorf (CuD #4.10)
A poster in CuD 4.10 writes:
> I never meant to suggest that Craig was in any way "at fault" for the
> cost of his defense, nor to discourage people from donating money to
> offset his expenses.
I was just wondering, did craig ever consider getting a public
defender? After all, he was above 18, he was an independent student.
I think he could have qualified, with a little finagling. A lot of
them are damn good.
I think I had disconnected, during the arrest periods, due to work
loads or i would have suggested it. HAve to admit, it would have been
nice to put the tab on uncle sam. and federal PDs are 1000 fold
better then local ones.
((Moderators' note: Craig's initial attorney seemed unfamiliar with
the issues his case raised. The Advocate is correct in observing
that many public defenders are competent, idealistic, and hard
working. Unfortunately, the issues raised in this case were beyond
the resources and expertise of most public defenders and required
some specialized skills.
In Chicago, the jurisdiction of Craig's trial, Federal public
defenders are appointed only if the defendant can demonstrate
financial need, and Craig, at best, probably would not have qualified.
Public defense attorneys appointed by the presiding judge from a pro
bono list, and while, through luck if the draw, it is possible to
obtain some of the best legal counsel in the country, it is just as
likely that he would be appointed one who neither was familiar with
nor willing to take on the line of defense ultimately used.
Unfortunately, our system of justice requires investment of resources
before the wheels turn properly.))
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