I've been charged with a misdemeanor and don't intend to contest the
charges. I'd like to know what my options are. My limited grasp of the law
would lead me to believe that I can plead guilty, plead no contest, or
request court supervision. What would each of these entail? Also, can I
meet with a public defender immediately prior to my arraignment and discuss
my case and find out from that person what my options are? And, finally,
what would be the benefits of hiring my own lawyer as opposed to having a
public defender defend me? I'm not sure but suspect there is a standard
deal for first-time offenders such as myself and don't see how I would
benefit from having my own lawyer. No defense will be attempted, afterall.
Thanks for any input