Criminal
Dec. 11, 2025
Can courts order unwilling lawyers to defend the indigent?
San Francisco's proposal to order private attorneys to represent indigent criminal defendants ignores a fundamental reality: competent criminal defense requires years of specialized training, specific personality traits and skills that cannot be acquired in weeks -- making court-ordered representation both unworkable and potentially unconstitutional.
Undoubtedly, the right to counsel is a
cornerstone of our justice system. And undoubtedly, the government cannot force
someone to work against their will. But when those two rights are diametrically
opposed to each other, how do you resolve that tension?
$95
Or access this article for $45
(Purchase provides 7-day access to this article. Printing, posting or downloading is not allowed.)
Already a subscriber?
Sign In