Disadvantages to representing myself?

i'm going to custody court here soon. i do qualify for legal aid unfortunately i've filled out the application three times and still am not on record. so therefore i'm trying to decide whether to hire a private attorney or to represent myself. To understand the circumstances the father has not been involved in my daughters life. he will not hold a job, and has been arrested numerous times. He is an alcoholic with a record of 4 under-ages, a DUI, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and theft. He also has active warrants in another state, although i haven't been able to get evidence on that. I have statements from our old roommate saying she saw him physically abusing me while i was pregnant. I on the other hand have a job, go to college, and provide a stable home. Do i really need to hire an attorney? i'm fairly convinced he has already attained one. Also how would i go about getting the warrant information? I only know the state not the city. With the information provided what do you believe he will recieve as far as custody or visitation? And how would i go about getting his home inspected? The house is completely unsafe for a infant.

the only thing i don't have proof of is his warrants in another state. everything else i have proof of. and i had kind of assumed i'd need a lawyer. just wishing i didn't but thanks =)

never ever represent your self! The court procedures alone will make your head spin and the other guys legal team will tear you to shreds.

In the UK, you can ask for the court to help you a every stage of the procedings but do not ever expect the court to offer advice to you. At this poin I would expect you to realise that you may well miss an opportunity to strengthen your case. A seasoned attorney will know the best plan of attack for a given situation and that is why they cost the money they do.

Please please please do not represent your self!!!!

Just a tip. In a court of law, it's not just what you know he has done, it's what you can prove! Representing oneself in something as important as child custody is not only risky but could be disastrous. You state that you are convinced that he already has an attorney, so do you really want to take that kind of risk with your child. Consult an attorney!