You should at least talk with an attorney before you decide to represent yourself. For some very minor and simple charges, you might do OK representing yourself. But you may not know what is a simple case. Remember, your freedom could be at stake. You could go to jail. You should know what your rights are and what an attorney may be able to do for you. Often, for even “minor” misdemeanors, at attorney can negotiate a better deal than you can. And for any felony, never represent yourself. Felonies are too serious.