W.D. Pa. LCrR 5

A. Opportunity to Consult With Counsel. A defendant shall be given an

opportunity to consult with counsel at his or her Initial Appearance and before an

initial interview with Pretrial Service Officers. The Federal Public Defender, or an

attorney from the CJA Panel if the Federal Public Defender has a conflict, as

directed by the Court, will provide advice of rights to defendants before their

interview with Pretrial Services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Court may

establish a separate protocol or procedure for situations involving the

substantially contemporaneous arrests of ten or more individuals.

B. Notification of Counsel. It is the responsibility of the Magistrate Judge

assigned to criminal duty to notify the Federal Public Defender, or the

defendant's retained counsel if known, before the Initial Appearance.

C. Eligibility for Appointed Counsel. When a defendant requests appointment

of counsel, and the Court determines that the defendant is eligible for appointed

counsel, the Court will appoint counsel under the Criminal Justice Act at the time

of the Initial Appearance.

D. Entry of Appearance. In all criminal cases involving privately retained

counsel, a notice of appearance of counsel shall be filed at or before the first

appearance of counsel. See also LCvR 83.2.C.1.

E. Withdrawal of Appearance. In any criminal proceeding, no attorney whose

appearance has been entered shall withdraw his or her appearance except upon

filing a written petition stating reasons for withdrawal, and only with leave of

Court and upon reasonable notice to the client. See also LCvR 83.2.C.4.