I understand that if I represent myself I will be held to the same legal rules of which a lawyer would be held. I understand that a lawyer has been trained in the rules of law and that if I represent myself I may not understand the rules used in court. I understand that there may be possible defenses that a lawyer may know how to raise, such as possible defects in the citations or accusation, misidentification, alibi, or the reliance on the presumption of innocence. I understand that if I proceed without a lawyer, I may encounter situations that I may not know how to handle properly (e.g., how to call witnesses to testify and how to question or cross-examine witness). I further understand that if I represent myself, I may not know how to properly preserve the court record for an appeal. I understand that I am not required to testify in a criminal case. However, if I decide to testify, I understand that the decision to testify must be made by me. I further understand that the minimum sentence allowed by law in my case, and that the maximum sentence, may be as high as $1,000 and/or 12 months in jail on each charge. Certain traffic offenses that are high in aggravating (e.g. aggressive driving, etc.) may have fines as high as $5,000. Mandatory State surcharge are added to all fines. I also understand that on certain State traffic offenses I have the right to a trial by jury in the Fayette County State Court.

I know and understand the dangers of proceeding to trial without a lawyer.