Legal Question in Criminal Law in Texas

For what? If you are charged with a felony or a misdemeanor for which punishment can be assessed at jail time, then you need a lawyer. While you can represent yourself if the judge finds that you are competent, this would be a bad idea no matter what the charge.

If you appear at your first setting without a lawyer, the judge will inquire as to your intent with regard to obtaining a lawyer. If you tell them you are waiving a lawyer and wish to talk to the prosecutor, the judge will admonish that it is a bad idea and determine if you understand what you are doing. If you advise the judge you intend to hire a lawyer, then you will get a reset to give you time to hire a lawyer. If you tell the judge you want a court appointed lawyer, the judge will inquire whether you are indigent and probably require you to provide documentary proof.