In NY either side may bring a lawyer, but a corporation has to. Lawyer or not, the judge runs the case, and the rules are relaxed. For example, There's not the question/response of a typical trial, but each side tells their story and the judge himself (or herself) would cross-examine witnesses.

Also judges make every effort to level the playing field, so bringing a lawyer (which is your right) isn't necessarily advantageous.

I'm not pro lawyer but I know that some people aren't as articulate as others, or can get tongue tied in a court setting, and I don't know that a no lawyers allowed rule is very fair.

I see the same thing in traffic court. Those who are well spoken have a definite advantageous over those less so.