Quote Quoting Iren
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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!!)

IF the offense is jailable, by statute, the state MUST provide you an attorney, if indigent. IF they do not, the federal constitution states they can NOT sentence you to jail.

In other words, they make you represent yourself, even if indigent, you are found guilty, they can not sentence you to any jail time.