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Do I have to pay for a public defender?

Short answer

Some places charge a small fee or ask you to repay part of the cost if you can. Ask your court.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

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Official sources

U.S. Courts: defender servicesuscourts.gov
National Center for State Courtsncsc.org
Legal Services Corporation (civil legal aid)lsc.gov