Sometimes. A public defender works with the same prosecutors every single day. That can help. But it can also hurt. They have a job to keep. They have 300 other cases. They may push you to take the first plea the prosecutor offers because they do not have time to fight for a better one. A private lawyer has the time and the leverage to push back and get you a better deal. More time on the case almost always means a better outcome. Call a private attorney for a free consultation to explore your options.