What is the test for a self-represented defendant in a civil case?

In general, a represented defendant has the federal and state constitutional right to the effective assistance of counsel. (See People v. Clark (2016) 63 Cal.4th 522, 630 [federal and state constitutional right to counsel includes the right to effective counsel].) This right, in turn, includes the right to reasonably necessary defense services. (Ibid.)

A self-represented defendant is not entitled to special treatment not afforded a defendant represented by counsel. (People v. Faxel (1979) 91 Cal.App.3d 327, 330.) Thus, a defendant who represents himself must also show that any ancillary services, such as public payment for an investigator or expert, are reasonably necessary to prepare a defense. (Ibid. [trial court properly denied self-represented defendant's motion for appointment of an investigator and runner where the defendant failed to show the services were reasonably necessary for his defense].)