When many people are facing a significant legal issue, their first thought is to find skilled representation immediately. After all, why in the world would you choose not to hire an attorney? Their job is to represent you in court (assuming that going to court is necessary), protect your legal rights, and ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. They also went through years of education to prepare for these moments. And since you did not, it is better to turn the reins over to someone who knows what they are doing.
With all of that said, for every person who agrees with this train of thought, there is someone who believes they do not need legal counsel. For starters, the law allows you to represent yourself in court, and plenty of people have done it.
They may also think their case is not that complex. “It can’t be too difficult,” they say aloud.
The reality is that representing yourself in court is never a good idea. It can be more complicated than you think and opens the door to myriad problems that you must suddenly navigate alone if you have no one by your side to offer guidance. Today’s blog post will dive into what we believe are the 9 most significant reasons why you should never represent yourself in court.
Representing Yourself in Court Opens the Door to These Pitfalls
Lack of knowledge.
Just because you believe you are in the right does not mean that you have the knowledge or experience to take the proper steps, obtain the correct documents, or ask the right questions to get the information you need entered into evidence so that the judge or jury can consider the evidence in making its decision. Furthermore, some cases require expert testimony, third-party witnesses, and/or statements from other officials—all of which may have special rules that must be followed to have the information admitted into evidence so that the information can be considered in the final decision. Lawyers are trained to know and understand the rules of civil procedure and the rules of evidence. These rules are in addition to the law on the subject matter that is applicable to your case.
No one can help you.
To piggyback on the first reason why you should not represent yourself, court personnel and staff cannot help you if you begin to struggle and need legal advice, coaching, or unique strategies somewhere along the way. In essence, you will be held to the same standards as an experienced attorney. It is like the old saying, you have made your bed, and now it is time to lie in it.
Financial pitfalls.
People who are facing a court appearance in the near future but want to keep things simple and avoid attorney fees may think representing themselves in court is the practical answer. The reality is that you still have to pay certain court costs and filing fees, even if you represent yourself. While those can appear less expensive than hiring a lawyer, gaping financial pitfalls can emerge when you do not know what you are doing. For example, failing to take timely action may result in your case being dismissed by the court. The dismissal may end your case permanently or require you to refile it, resulting in additional costs.
Emotions.
It is nearly impossible to separate yourself emotionally from your own case so that you see both sides objectively. That can lead you to make poor choices in the courtroom, including the inability to recognize and adapt to weaknesses in your own case, all of which can cost you and your family financially. Having a lawyer who can create a compelling and objective argument gives you an advantage.
You face instant disadvantages.
Let us say, for the sake of argument, that you do decide to represent yourself in court. After all, that is your right. But it is also the right of the other party to hire an attorney. If they do hire an experienced attorney who is trained to win, your lack of experience instantly becomes a massive disadvantage and puts the other party in a position of power. Sure, you could still win your case. That said, the party with the attorney is often in the driver’s seat in these situations.
Higher spending and smaller settlements.
As we alluded to earlier, the hidden costs associated with representing yourself in court can drain your bank account faster than if you had just hired an attorney to help you. On the flip side, you may win your case but walk away with a significantly smaller settlement check compared to what an attorney could have secured on your behalf.
You could incriminate yourself.
That sounds a bit extreme, but it could happen. Think about this: people who represent themselves in court have zero buffer between themselves and the judge or a jury. You could be arguing your case and inadvertently provide information that incriminates you, completely undermining your argument.
Legalese and form-filling are not for everyone.
Even if you have some knowledge regarding the legal system and the mountain of paperwork that must be completed accurately and on time, you are bound to run into some issues that might delay the process or put you in a worse position.
Decreased odds of winning.
Over the years, numerous individuals have represented themselves in court and emerged victorious. But the odds that you will lose your case or not achieve the best possible outcome are actually much higher. Before you consider going at your case alone, consider if you really want to put that much faith in your ability to provide expert representation for yourself.
Call Nelson Law Group Today!!
When it comes to your legal situation, you need an attorney who will guide you through each stage and work diligently to achieve a result that will give you peace of mind moving forward. The Nelson Law Group has decades of experience in family law, personal injury law, estate planning, and civil litigation. Give our knowledgeable staff here at Nelson Law Group, PC, a call if you have any further questions regarding this or any other issue.
Give our knowledgeable staff at Nelson Law Group, PC, a call if you have any further questions. Our staff is always available. Give us a call today! For more information about Brett A. Nelson, click here.
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