93. pro se

What is Pro Se?

Pro se (Latin for "on one's own behalf") refers to a person who represents themselves in a legal proceeding without hiring an attorney. Individuals may choose pro se representation in civil or criminal cases, but it comes with challenges, as legal proceedings can be complex.

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Key Aspects of Pro Se Representation

✔ Self-Representation Rights – In the U.S., the Sixth Amendment (criminal cases) and Title 28 of the U.S. Code, Section 1654 (civil cases) guarantee individuals the right to represent themselves. ✔ Court Expectations – Pro se litigants must follow all court rules, deadlines, and procedures, just like attorneys. ✔ Common in Small Claims & Family Law – Many people represent themselves in divorce, child custody, or small claims court cases. ✔ Challenges – Without legal expertise, pro se litigants risk procedural errors, weak arguments, and case dismissal. ✔ Legal Assistance Available – Courts often provide self-help centers, guides, and pro bono (free) legal aid for pro se litigants.

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Examples of Pro Se Representation

• A tenant files a lawsuit against a landlord for failure to return a security deposit without hiring an attorney.

• A defendant contests a speeding ticket in court, arguing their own case.

• A person handles their own divorce case rather than paying for a lawyer.

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5 Reference Pages for Pro Se with URLs

1. Legal Information Institute – Pro Se

   • URL: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/pro_se

   • Explanation: Defines pro se representation and discusses its legal implications in both civil and criminal cases.

2. United States Courts – Filing Without an Attorney (Pro Se Litigants)

   • URL: https://www.uscourts.gov/services-forms/filing-without-attorney

   • Explanation: Offers guidance for pro se litigants, including court rules, procedures, and self-help resources.

3. FindLaw – Representing Yourself in Court (Pro Se Litigants)

   • URL: https://www.findlaw.com/litigation/going-to-court/representing-yourself-in-court.html

   • Explanation: Provides practical tips and legal considerations for individuals representing themselves in court.

4. American Bar Association – Pro Se Representation

   • URL: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/delivery_legal_services/resources/pro_se_unbundling_resource_center/

   • Explanation: Discusses the pros and cons of pro se representation and available resources for self-represented litigants.

5. Wikipedia – Pro Se Legal Representation in the United States

   • URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pro_se_legal_representation_in_the_United_States

   • Explanation: Provides an overview of pro se representation, including statistics, history, and legal challenges.

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