When you first appear in court, you will be asked whether you want to represent yourself, hire your own attorney, or (if you cannot afford an attorney) have the court appoint the public defender’s office to represent you.  (However, some low level offenses do not qualify for a court-appointed attorney.)  With any criminal charge, there are many factors that can affect the outcome of your case.  You should seriously consider having legal representation; whether you hire your own attorney or have the court appoint one to represent you.  The consequences of not having sound legal advice about the issues and options in your case can have an unwanted negative impact on your future.