A. Opportunity to Consult With Counsel. A defendant shall be given an
opportunity to consult with counsel at his or her Initial Appearance and before an
initial interview with Pretrial Service Officers. The Federal Public Defender, or an
attorney from the CJA Panel if the Federal Public Defender has a conflict, as
directed by the Court, will provide advice of rights to defendants before their
interview with Pretrial Services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Court may
establish a separate protocol or procedure for situations involving the
substantially contemporaneous arrests of ten or more individuals.
B. Notification of Counsel. It is the responsibility of the Magistrate Judge
assigned to criminal duty to notify the Federal Public Defender, or the
defendant's retained counsel if known, before the Initial Appearance.
C. Eligibility for Appointed Counsel. When a defendant requests appointment
of counsel, and the Court determines that the defendant is eligible for appointed
counsel, the Court will appoint counsel under the Criminal Justice Act at the time
of the Initial Appearance.
D. Entry of Appearance. In all criminal cases involving privately retained
counsel, a notice of appearance of counsel shall be filed at or before the first
appearance of counsel. See also LCvR 83.2.C.1.
E. Withdrawal of Appearance. In any criminal proceeding, no attorney whose
appearance has been entered shall withdraw his or her appearance except upon
filing a written petition stating reasons for withdrawal, and only with leave of
Court and upon reasonable notice to the client. See also LCvR 83.2.C.4.
