Can anyone use a public defender? Questions › Category: Legal help › Can anyone use a public defender? 2 Vote Up Vote Down ID asked 51 years ago How is the decision made and by whom if some one is entitled to be represented by a public defender? 1 Answers 1 Vote Up Vote Down Tess answered 1 year ago No, you have to qualify financially, that is, you cannot afford an attorney. Also, no public defense in civil cases, only criminal charges. Your Answer 19 + 13 = Your Email Your Name