> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/foundations-and-procedures/title-2-justice-system-structure-and-roles/attorneys-and-legal-representation.md). # Attorneys and Legal Representation Attorneys play a critical role in the justice system of San Andreas by providing legal representation, ensuring due process, and upholding the rule of law. This section outlines the rights of defendants to legal counsel, the responsibilities of attorneys, and the rules governing their conduct. *** #### **Right to an Attorney** As a constitutional right, defendants have the right to an attorney at any time during legal proceedings. Law Enforcement Officers are required to inform detained or arrested individuals of this right. * If a defendant requests an attorney, law enforcement must provide a **minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 20 minutes** to allow the defendant to secure legal representation. * If the defendant cannot afford an attorney, a judge may appoint an attorney from the **Department of Public Defense**, provided the defendant is deemed indigent and has assets valued under **$50,000**. Once an attorney has been appointed, law enforcement must allow the attorney **at least 10 minutes and no more than 20 minutes** to arrive at the detention facility. *** #### **Rules of Conduct for Attorneys** All practicing attorneys in San Andreas must adhere to the following regulations to maintain professional integrity and accountability: * **Bar Card Requirement:** * All attorneys must possess a **valid Bar Card** issued by a Justice or Judge. * Bar Cards must be presented upon request by law enforcement to verify legal authorization. * Attorneys must pass the **San Andreas Bar Examination** to be admitted to the Bar Association and practice law. * **Professional Conduct and Courtroom Decorum:** * Attorneys must **demonstrate respect** for the legal system and its officials, including judges, other attorneys, law enforcement, and public officials. * Attorneys **must dress professionally** when representing a client—masks, costumes, or face paint are prohibited. * Attorneys must **arrive within 10 minutes** when meeting clients at police stations or detention facilities. * **Interaction with Law Enforcement and Clients:** * Attorneys may present cases to the **arresting officer** and negotiate a **plea deal**, but negotiations may not exceed **20 minutes**. * If no plea deal is reached, law enforcement may proceed with **fines and sentencing** unless a bond is requested. * Attorneys may **not** appear at crime scenes to **argue, question, or plead cases** with officers actively investigating. * Attorneys interfering with law enforcement **may be arrested** for **Disorderly Conduct**. * Attorneys **may not** represent a client in a case where they were a **witness to the crime** in question. * **Searches and Security Compliance:** * Attorneys must consent to a **weapons search** before entering any **detention facility**. * Any weapons found on an attorney will be secured in the **department’s armory lockers**. * **Disciplinary Actions:** * The **Chief Justice or a presiding Justice** may revoke an attorney’s **Bar Card** for misconduct or violations of these rules. * Revocation may last for a **specified term**, during which the attorney **cannot practice law** in San Andreas. *** By following these guidelines, attorneys contribute to a fair and efficient justice system while maintaining their professional integrity. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/foundations-and-procedures/title-2-justice-system-structure-and-roles/attorneys-and-legal-representation.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.