Deciding whether to hire a lawyer is an important decision. If you are charged with a crime, getting the right legal advice is a must. The implications and consequencies of a criminal charge and conviction can last for years and impact many areas of your life.

A person who decides not to obtain counsel and goes to court without being represented by a lawyer is called “self-represented” or “pro se.” Pro se is a Latin term that means “for oneself.”

You may need a lawyer if: (these are only examples)

* You want legal advice.
* You do not fully understand papers you received from the other party side or from the court. (Court administration may be able to answer some questions for you.)
* You cannot afford to lose your case.
* You have a complicated case.
* You want to appeal a case.
* You are charged with a crime.

You may not need a lawyer if: (these are only examples)

* You understand your case well enough to explain it to a judge.
* You don’t get overly nervous speaking in public, like a courtroom.
* You are organized and keep accurate records.
* You can write neatly or type.
* You have time to prepare papers, make copies, learn the required steps, file papers with the court, do legal research and attend court hearings.
* You have time to respond (right away) to papers you receive from the other party.
* You are able to read, understand, and respond promptly to all papers you get from the Court.
* Your case is relatively simple and no one will come forward to argue against what you want.
* You are comfortable negotiating with the other side or their lawyer, if represented.
* You speak, read, and write English well.
* When you read state laws and court rules and cases, you understand what you have read.