<P> Entry level public defenders can be hired straight out of their third year of law school . State public defenders (as well as state prosecutors) often begin their careers handling misdemeanor cases . Since misdemeanors generally do not involve serious injuries, the parties are often more willing to ask that charges be dismissed, and less likely to appeal a dismissal by a judge . Therefore, although the volume may appear high, the work - per - case is significantly lower for misdemeanors . </P> <P> Full - time state public defenders typically handle felony and misdemeanor criminal cases . Many, if not most, public defenders enjoy some form of civil service protections, such as a requirement that any employment termination be only for "good cause ." Many staff attorneys belong to unions . In Florida, staff attorneys have no civil service protections . </P> <P> In US civil cases (e.g., personal injury or a landlord - tenant dispute), public defenders may be appointed in civil cases that are quasi-criminal in nature (e.g., removal of children from parents and civil commitments for alleged sexually violent predators) or in highly unusual situations where the civil proceedings may be highly connected to criminal proceedings; otherwise indigent litigants are referred to a legal aid office . </P> <P> In the last few years, a new form of practice, pioneered at The Bronx Defenders and known as "holistic defense" (or "holistic advocacy") has emerged . Holistic Defense is characterized by four pillars: 1) Seamless access to legal and nonlegal services that meet client needs; 2) Dynamic, interdisciplinary communication; 3) Advocates with an interdisciplinary skill set; 4) A robust understanding of, and connection to, the community served . </P>

Can i get a public defender for a civil case