Lawyer ordered to represent defendant without fee

CROWN POINT, Ind. — A northwestern Indiana judge says a lawyer whose client has run out of money must continue to defend him against a murder charge without receiving a legal fee.

Hammond attorney Randy Godshalk had asked for Lake County to pay him at the same rate as a public defender for representing 39-year-old Riley Choate of Gary. Choate is charged with killing his 13-year-old son, Christian Choate, following years of abuse. His trial is set for August.

The Times of Munster reports that Judge Diane Boswell rejected Godshalk’s proposal but ordered the public defender’s office to assist him with other expenses.

Choate’s ex-wife has pleaded guilty to a neglect charge and agreed to testify against Choate.

Christian Choate’s body was found last May, two years after his death.