That is, of course, true. Were I unable to afford a lawyer, I would politely decline the request. If I could't afford an attorney, I feel like I couldn't afford to get mixed up in something like this either.

maybe, but then you haven't been subjected to a laundry list of treason charges and the 36 life sentences you could be facing. You are sitting at a comfortable desk, at home, and maybe sipping Pepsi or whatever :)

Pressure works differently on different people and those in alphabet agencies know what buttons to press.

....maybe they'll leave me alone, if I just talk to them. No need for lawyers (OMG I don't even have the rent money this month!) and no uncertainties over life in prison. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wXkI4t7nuc