Statistics from courts around the country show a tremendous increase in the number of people who represent themselves (pro se’) in divorce cases. It’s perfectly legal to represent yourself, but it is very difficult. Unless you have an ability to grasp legal concepts, it will be hard to master such issues as the rules of procedure, discovery and how to best use evidence.
When you represent yourself in a family law matter, you are held to the same standard as an attorney. This applies to your preparation of paperwork and your conduct at all hearings. Your lack of legal knowledge may cause you to make serious errors in handling your case.
Many judges dislike unrepresented parties.  Many unrepresented people who think they have a great case find out otherwise after a judge rules against them because they can’t tell the judge everything they want to because of the rules of evidence. If you don’t have a lawyer but your spouse does, their lawyer can ask you whatever questions they want and there is nobody to object to those questions but you. If you don’t know when to object, you might answer questions you don’t have to and unwittingly damage your case.
It’s also hard to emotionally distance yourself enough so you can be objective. It takes enormous discipline to act calm and rational when you are emotionally invested, but falling apart or blowing up will only hurt your case. The best representation generally comes from a dispassionate third party, such as a skilled divorce attorney.
Even if you are thinking of representing yourself, consult with an attorney to find out what your legal rights are and what action you should take to protect those rights. A couple of hours of a lawyer’s time could save you a lot later.