Public attorney or private lawyer?

Location: South Carolina

For background: In August of 2024, our neighbor broke into our townhouse while we were gone (moving to a new home) and took many items, some expensive and some just sentimental. Police came, fingerprints were found, so no doubt on who the criminal was. He is being charged with 1st degree burglary by the state. He has a history of misdemeanors, one being as recent as June 2024 (receiving stolen goods).

Last week, we had a hearing where we made an offer: he pay us restitutions or we go to trial. The amount he would have to pay would be just over $6K. He said he needed another week to think about it and consult with his lawyer, and he was granted that time by the judge. Today, we went back for the hearing, and he officially declined the offer and wants to go to trial. Our solicitor (public attorney, I know they have other names in other states) says that we will meet next month to prepare and the trial will be in early November.

My question is: would it be worth it to find a private lawyer, or is sticking with the solicitor efficient enough for this case? It’s almost guaranteed that he will go to jail, but crazier things have happened. I know the solicitor really works for the state, not us, so I’m not sure if getting a private lawyer would be in our best interest. The cost would be hard on us. Any advice is appreciated!