The article examines the issue of “double defense” in criminal proceedings, which arises when, alongside a lawyer by agreement, the court or investigative authorities appoint an additional defense lawyer against the will of the defendant. The author conducts an analysis of the relevant legislative provisions and judicial practice concerning this matter. As a result of the study, it is concluded that the appointment of a duplicate defense lawyer is justified only in cases where the conduct of the defense is manifestly bad-faith and aimed at disrupting the criminal proceedings. The author proposes amendments to certain provisions of the criminal procedure legislation.