In Phoenix, the main difference between public defenders and private criminal lawyers centers on their selection, clientele, and caseload. Public defenders are government-assigned attorneys who represent those unable to afford private counsel, and clients cannot choose their assigned defender. Due to a high caseload, public defenders may have limited time for each case. In contrast, private criminal lawyers are hired directly by clients, offering more choice and personalized attention. They work with various clients and can focus more on individual cases. While public defenders ensure legal representation for those in need, private attorneys often provide greater flexibility and tailored defense strategies. The choice between them hinges on one's financial situation and legal requirements.