What are the negatives of representing yourself in court?

Answer by  patti (29325)

The downside is that you can't possible know all the sneaky lawyer tricks the other side will pull on you. Educate yourself. Forearmed is forewarned.

Answer by  HawaiianGirl (6906)

It is always better to have a legal representative available to represent you. they may understand certain terms that come your way that you do not understand.

Answer by  Lisa6938 (485)

The negatives of self representation are many. You will be pitted against someone who is schooled in the art or persuasion, has a deep understanding of substantive law and is familair with the rules of evidence. You will not be able to grasp the substantive law as quickly or possibly understand that rules of evidence.

Answer by  palaeologus (564)

Unless you have been to law school, you are not likely to understand the very technical niceties of procedure that can undo what you might have thought was a strong case on your side. Judges and opposing lawyers are skilled in both procedure and substance and they speak each other's language. You don't want to be learning as you go.