> And this is why Texas allows for small claims court, where no lawyers are allowed for either side [...]
Are you sure about that? The small claims FAQ [1] on the Texas State Law Library site says lawyers are allowed. It cites section 500.4 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
Looking at the Texas RCP, it looks like small claims is defined by rule 500.3, which among other things says small claims cases are governed by Rules 500-507, so 500.4 would apply as stated in the FAQ.
Most states actually allow attorneys in small claims court. But even in a state that doesn't allow attorneys it probably doesn't matter. That's because it is usually easy to appeal small claims decisions, so if you lose in small claims court but think you would have won if only you had had an attorney you can appeal. The appeal is heard in regular court.
[1] https://faq.sll.texas.gov/questions/48996
