A person facing criminal charges in federal court is entitled to the assistance of an attorney. If a person cannot afford to hire an attorney, then the court can appoint a lawyer for that person. Under some circumstances, the court can order the person to contribute to the cost of the attorney, or to repay the cost of legal services after the case is over. Attorneys in the Office of the Federal Public Defender cannot provide legal representation to anyone unless the court has approved the appointment of counsel. Legal advice and representation is limited to those matters related to the criminal charge for which an attorney was appointed.