My understanding is that you don't get offered a public defender until you are actually arrested. At that point, they'll ask if you've got an attorney or want one. If you want one and can't afford it, then they'll set you up with a public defender.
Then again, I have never heard of public defenders being available in civil cases. The unfortunate fact is, if you are wronged and can't afford an attorney to file a civil suit, tough luck for you. Ordinary folks in HM's position who don't have money for an attorney in civil court basically get screwed. Cohen did something I've never heard of - he solicited pro bono representation for HM when she ran out of money for an attorney.
Then again, I have never heard of public defenders being available in civil cases. The unfortunate fact is, if you are wronged and can't afford an attorney to file a civil suit, tough luck for you. Ordinary folks in HM's position who don't have money for an attorney in civil court basically get screwed. Cohen did something I've never heard of - he solicited pro bono representation for HM when she ran out of money for an attorney.