If a defendant is indigent, what is the court required to do?

When a defendant is considered indigent, meaning they cannot afford an attorney or the costs associated with legal representation, the court has an obligation to inquire into the defendant's ability to pay for legal assistance or bail. This inquiry is essential because it allows the court to assess the financial situation of the defendant and determine the appropriate steps to ensure a fair trial.

By evaluating the defendant's financial status, the court can decide whether to appoint a public defender or alternative legal assistance if needed. This process promotes fairness in the legal system, ensuring that indigent defendants are provided with the necessary resources to defend themselves adequately against the charges they are facing. It's important for courts to comply with these requirements to uphold the principles of justice and the right to legal representation, particularly for those who cannot afford it.