Well okay "do not plead guilty, ask for a public defender." Got it.

Now my research was indicating that Oregon won't require/let me have a public defender because this is a misdemeanor offense. Instead I am to talk to the court clerk. Is this correct? If so do I talk to the court clerk BEFORE my date or when I go in on that day? o.o

(I am very sorry for all the questions... I just wanna make sure I don't screw up and end up, well... in there. x.x!!)