CanIget an attorney prior to myfirst court appearancefor a felony charge?

CanIget an attorney prior to myfirst court appearancefor a felony charge?

I have been charged with possession of stolen laptop. I had found the laptop in the library. I got a call from the police station and was naive to think that the owner had been found. Before I noticed, I was being read my rights. I’m a thriving 18 year old student with a clean record. This is my first time offense. I was panicking during the investigation and panicked in trying to defend myself. I had to ask for a couple seconds to collect myself before I could give a written statement. Can I still get a lawyer, even a public defender? If so,should I do so before the first appearance?

Asked on March 19, 2011 under Criminal Law, California

Answers:

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