The legal training is similar but the caseload and resources differ significantly. A Providence private criminal defense attorney typically handles a much smaller caseload, allowing dedicated time for each client's case. A Rhode Island Public Defender lawyer carries hundreds of cases at once, which limits how much time can be devoted to any one case. Both are bound by the same ethical duties and can produce strong results. For serious charges with significant collateral consequences (felonies, DUI, professional license risk), many defendants who can stretch their resources hire private counsel for the focused attention. Public defenders are appointed only if you qualify financially.
