Should I Represent Myself in Court?

It’s tempting. Court TV shows make it look easy. And for small claims or justice of the peace court, representing yourself might be reasonable. But for most civil cases? It could cost you more than you think. This post explains the difference between being pro se and having professional representation, with real-world examples of how failing to understand the Texas Rules of Evidence or Civil Procedure can backfire. We also explore how an attorney's role goes beyond knowing the law—they strategize, communicate, and protect your rights every step of the way.