Q: Will a trial record show self-representation if assisted by an attorney in Georgia?

A: If you choose to represent yourself (pro se) but have an attorney assist you during the trial, the record will reflect that you are self-represented. However, the nature of the attorney’s assistance may be noted in the trial record. In Georgia, you can receive help from an attorney without them formally representing you, but it’s important to make clear in court that you are choosing to handle your case yourself.

During the trial, you will need to affirm that you are representing yourself, even if the attorney is assisting in certain aspects of your defense. The court may note that you are self-represented, but if the attorney provides direct legal counsel, it could be recorded that the attorney was involved in some capacity, even if not as your formal representative.

To ensure the trial record accurately reflects your decision to represent yourself, you should confirm with the court before the trial starts that you are waiving your right to an attorney. This way, there’s no confusion about your status during the trial, and the record will clearly show that you chose to represent yourself while receiving some assistance.

A: If you are representing yourself (pro se) but have an attorney assist you during the trial, the trial record will typically show that you are self-represented. The fact that you are choosing to handle your case on your own will be noted in the court record, even if the attorney is providing limited help. However, if the attorney is actively participating, such as advising you or helping with certain legal matters, it might be recorded that they assisted you, but without formally representing you.

It's important that you make it clear in court that you are waiving your right to full representation and are opting to proceed on your own, even if the attorney is providing assistance. This ensures that the court understands your choice and the record reflects your decision accurately.

Before the trial begins, you should confirm with the court that you are representing yourself and that the attorney is only providing guidance, not formally representing you. This way, there will be no confusion about your status as a self-represented individual, and the trial record should reflect that you chose to defend yourself with assistance, not formal representation.