What Is Pro Se Legal Representation? - Rocket Lawyer

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Here is a brief overview of pro se legal representation.

Pro Se litigation means legal self-representation in court without an attorney. The majority of pro se cases in the United States include bankruptcy, foreclosure, landlord/tenant issues, and domestic-relations matters such as divorce, custody and child support, and probate.

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Many people choose to go pro se (or "pro per") to avoid costly attorney fees, however, in many jurisdictions, pro se is mandatory for small claims cases involving monetary disputes, like property damages or car accidents.

Pro se has its advantages and disadvantages. Some pro se litigants save time and money, but many lack the legal training and experience to successfully prove their case. If you are in need of legal help, you can create legal documents yourself for preventative matters. If you're going to court, you can Consult a Legal Pro for help.

Please note: This page offers general legal information, not but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.

Written and Reviewed by Experts
Written and Reviewed by Experts This article was created, edited and reviewed by trained editorial staff who specialize in translating complex legal topics into plain language.

At Rocket Lawyer, we believe legal information should be both reliable and easy to understand—so you don't need a law degree to feel informed. We follow a rigorous editorial policy to ensure every article is helpful, clear, and as accurate and up-to-date as possible.

About this page:

  • This article was written and reviewed by Rocket Lawyer editorial staff
  • This article was last reviewed or updated on Feb 11, 2025

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