REPRESENTING YOURSELF, PRO SE

Do I Really Need a Lawyer for my Case?

 

Question: Do I need a Lawyer? Can't I represent myself in court?

Answer: In short, yes, having a Lawyer represent you offers many benefits. Even if a defendant has intentions of pleading guilty, it is almost always a better option to plead not guilty while the criminal defense lawyer completes not only a review of all the legal documents and police reports, but also has a chance to conduct investigation and speak with the district attorney concerning a plea bargain.

It is often said, "If you're guilty, you plead guilty," however, such a comment misses the point concerning plea bargaining. For instance, imagine you are buying a car. After your own research, you decide a certain car is valued near $10,000. Once you find that model car for purchase, the seller informs you the car is priced at $15,500. Would you instantly accept the offer and buy the car? Of course not. You would bargain with the seller for what you believe is a fair value.

In the context of a criminal case, it is very common for the defendant to not know the value of their case in terms of punishment; for example, what is the appropriate punishment for a person arrested for shoplifting when that person has a prior record containing two other theft related crimes as well as a DWI? Or is a fraud check case worth jail time when it is the first offense and the value of fraud is less than $30? NOT whether it's legally possible, but reasonable in light of the common punishments in that courtroom for similar offenses. These are the types of questions criminal defense attorneys know and answer everyday.

 

Find out more:

• Visit our Main Website
• Punishments in Texas for Offenses
• Read about our Legal Fees and Payment Plans
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F R E E    P H O N E  C O N S U L T A T I ON  
(512) 216-3211

Serving Austin Texas and surrounding areas of Travis County,
including San Marcos, Hays County, & Blanco County.

Main Office - Downtown Austin
700 Lavaca, Suite 1400
Austin, TX 78701
Telephone: 512-216-3211
Fax: 888-709-6040
E-mail Us

San Marcos, Hays County Office
301 North Guadalupe Street. #24
San Marcos, TX 78666
Telephone: 512-216-3211
Fax: 888-709-6040
E-mail Us