Zerxes assumption about PDs is incorrect. Yes, it is true that a private attorney has more time to devote to your case than a PD. But one, PDs do not have to take as many cases as a PD can get. It's not true in the L.A. office (where I have a couple of friends), and it's not true here in NYC. I do not have a quota of cases to do.
Two, PDs do not try to get you to take the first deal that comes your way. That assumption is the most aggravating bulls**t that I have to confront. There are many times that I tell a client to pass up on an offer that a ADA makes, because I know that in many cases, I can make the case a pain in the ass for the ADA. To avoid the pain, I can get an ADA to bargain down later.
Now for Shawn. Your story is very frustrating to me. I have been on this site dozens of times telling everyone not to speak to the police or to the DA's office without having your attorney present. If you cannot afford an attorney, the state must provide you with a free attorney. Why, why why speak to the police? So what you had a package of Thai d-bol. After you admit that you knew you were receiving d-bol, the case is practically over for you. I implore other members of this board to heed my advice: The only thing you should say to the police is that you want your lawyer. That's it. End of discussion.
You did not tell them things that they already knew. Your knowledge of the contents of the package could only be proved circumstantially. That might have made the case very weak for the prosecution. But with your confession, you made the case a slam-dunk for them. Please, members of Elite, don't repeat his mistake. Other board members have made the same mistake.
Shawn, you never contact the ADA on the case. I don't care if you are confused about the court dates. Go the the L.A. public defender's office and ask them. That's what they are there for. Contacting an ADA is the type of behavior that sends my blood pressure through the roof! Everything you say to the ADA can and WILL be used against you.
Shawn, do yourself a huge favor. Go to the PD's office tomorrow! Talk to an attorney there who can precisely explain your predicament to you. Only competent legal advice can lessen your fears.
Good luck.