Also known as: pro se litigant · pro se · self-represented litigants · self-representation
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
A party appearing in court without an attorney to represent them. The party handles all aspects of the case including filings, arguments, and negotiations.
Judge Priscilla Parks filed a small claims action over a disputed property boundary on her own behalf. She prepared and signed all documents herself and appeared at the hearing without counsel. The court accepted her filings and allowed her to present evidence directly.
Preston Pratt faced federal charges and chose to proceed without counsel. The prosecutor met with him directly to discuss a proposed plea agreement that would dismiss two counts in exchange for a guilty plea on the remaining charge. The court later confirmed the factual basis for the plea before accepting it.
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A judge may give uncompensated advice and draft or review documents for family members but may not serve as their lawyer in any forum. Drafting pleadings, preparing discovery plans, or coaching on trial strategy crosses the line into prohibited representation even if the family member signs all filings.
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When a rule requires a defendant's signature or consent and emergency conditions limit the ability to sign, defense counsel may sign if the defendant consents on the record. If the defendant is pro se the court may sign upon recorded consent.
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A defendant may proceed pro se when the waiver of counsel is knowing and intelligent. The court must ensure the defendant understands the proceedings, the charges, and the consequences of self-representation.
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