Judge rules Dr. Patel will have to pay for his own lawyer

Jayant Patel

YouNewsTV™

Story Published: Mar 28, 2008 at 6:24 PM PDT

Story Updated: Mar 28, 2008 at 6:24 PM PDT

By Associated Press

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - A judge ruled that a surgeon charged with manslaughter in the deaths of three patients in Australia will have to hire his own lawyer.

Dr. Jayant Patel told a federal judge March 11 he could not afford an attorney to defend him against an extradition request by Australia.

The federal public defender appointed to represent Patel asked to be removed from the case, telling U.S. Magistrate Judge Dennis Hubel her office determined that Patel could afford an attorney.

Hubel ruled Friday that Patel has the money to hire representation, writing that the doctor has "substantial assets" in various investment accounts.

Patel practiced surgery in Australia from 2003 to 2005 after his Oregon medical license was severely restricted. The accusations stem from his role in the deaths of patients at Bundaberg Base Hospital in the state of Queensland.

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