What is a Self-Represented Litigant?

If you cannot find a legal firm to represent you, you can pursue your lawsuit by appearing without representation or pro se, a Latin phrase meaning “for oneself.” If you file a lawsuit and represent yourself, you are the “plaintiff.” If someone sues you, you are the “defendant.” In either case, you can appear pro se. Keep in mind that as a self-represented litigant, you can only represent yourself and only present your claims and defenses. Under the law, you cannot speak for another person, a company, or other entity such as a club or association that includes other individuals. When you appear pro se, you must follow the same rules and procedures as licensed attorneys who practice in this court. Generally, judges hold self-represented litigants to the same standards of professional responsibility as lawyers.

Self-represented simply refers to a proceeding where one or both parties is representing themselves. If you refer to a “self-represented divorce”, that would be when one or both parties do not have legal counsel and are proceeding on their own.