Final answer:
Someone accused of a crime is equally likely to be convicted if he or she is represented by a public defender.
Step-by-step explanation:
Someone accused of a crime is equally likely to be convicted if he or she is represented by a public defender.
While public defenders are underpaid and overworked, the Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to legal representation for those accused of crimes. Public defenders are employed and paid by the state to represent defendants who cannot afford their own attorney. The goal is to ensure that every person facing criminal charges has access to legal counsel, regardless of their financial means.