That's not how it typically works. While being assigned a public defender generally takes into account a defendant's assets, it does not prevent the Court from assigning the defendant counsel as soon as possible.
In some states, you can be a multi-millionaire but if you are held without bond, you automatically qualify for a PD per the statute (but if you are later granted bail and determined to have the means to hire representation while out of custody, it's expected you will do so and your PD privilege revoked).
I believe SS is in this category -- held without bond. For example, it's not expected for the State to put SS's case on hold for SS to attempt to liquidate his 'collectibles,' and then use the proceeds to retain private counsel, all from behind bars in the county jail.
IIRC, in Florida, I believe any person charged with capital murder (death penalty) -- indigent or not, qualifies for a PD. I believe they are required to receive two death penalty qualified attorneys.
In other words, the constitutional right to counsel takes priority, and repayment of a PD becomes secondary.
I recall an old case in CA of a convicted killer (Diana Haun), also without liquid assets but who received a monthly annuity benefit after a personal injury. After conviction, the state was able to garnish her monthly benefits until the cost of her PD was recovered. I think the State wanted to take this further and make her also pay for the cost of her imprisonment but don't recall if this was ever ruled upon.
MOO
Court: Judge rules convicted killer can afford costs for public defenders because she collects an annuity. He also will consider billing her for prison.
www.latimes.com
