My friend was assigned a public defender in Middlesex County in NJ and she is not doing anything for him. Can he request to chg.

Why not hire a private attorney? Many people are not happy with public pretenders. In some jurisdictions, to get to be a public defender, an attorney must pass the "mirror test" - if they hold a mirror under his nose, it fogs up. Your friend can ask the court for a new attorney, but the court may not grant the request. Then your friend's public defender might be even less enthusiastic about doing the job. [Please note: I'm only licensed to practice law in the State of Washington. This communication does not comprise legal advice, nor does it form an attorney-client relationship.]

If your friend feels that his interests are not being protected, then he should hire a private attorney. Depending on the type of conspiracy, the charge could be very serious in New Jersey, and carry substantial jail time.

Answer: no. You can try to contact the Deputy Public Defender of the county's public defender office and explain your concerns - but unless the assigned attorney agrees that there are irreconcilable differences between you and him/her, you will keep this attorney. I have seen this and continue to see this over and over again. Public defender or private attorney - there are simply different attorneys out there with different styles, work ethics, abilities that may or may not fit your character or satisfy your needs. Some, quite simply, don't have the heart or responsibility where it should lie - only with the client. While represented on criminal charges, it is EXTREMELY important to be comfortable with your attorney, to have full trust in his abilities, his intentions, and interests. You want to be 100% convinced you have someone by your side who is willing to stick with you thick or thin, and give you proficient advice when needed. If going to the Deputy Public Defender does not help, I would also advise you consult with private attorneys, and chose the one you feel comfortable with. Privately, the Client's satisfaction and choice is what matters. Your friend's attorney has several methods at his disposal to attempt to accelerate the indictment process (e.g. motion for probable cause). Whether they are available or appropriate, only the attorney familiar with the facts can determine.