You have the right to represent yourself in Rhode Island District Court, but it is strongly inadvisable. The prosecutor is an experienced trial lawyer who handles the calendar week after week. Without a lawyer, you face a significant disadvantage in understanding procedural rules, evaluating evidence, identifying suppression motions, and negotiating with the prosecutor. Even for what seems like a minor misdemeanor, a conviction can carry consequences beyond the courtroom including driver's license suspension, employment background check issues, and immigration consequences. If you cannot afford private counsel, the court will appoint a public defender. For serious charges, hiring private counsel on a payment plan is often the better investment.
