Pro Se
Literal meaning: “For oneself; on one's own behalf.”
What does the Latin term "Pro Se" mean in law?
Pro se (also called pro per, short for in propria persona) refers to a party who represents themselves in a legal proceeding without the assistance of an attorney. The right to proceed pro se in civil cases is well established, and in criminal cases the Sixth Amendment guarantees the right of self-representation, as recognized in Faretta v. California. Courts are generally required to construe pro se filings liberally, holding them to less stringent standards than those drafted by attorneys. However, pro se litigants are still bound by procedural rules and deadlines, and courts are not obligated to act as their advocates.
Source: Procedure · Legal Latin
Legal Definition
Pro se (also called pro per, short for in propria persona) refers to a party who represents themselves in a legal proceeding without the assistance of an attorney. The right to proceed pro se in civil cases is well established, and in criminal cases the Sixth Amendment guarantees the right of self-representation, as recognized in Faretta v. California. Courts are generally required to construe pro se filings liberally, holding them to less stringent standards than those drafted by attorneys. However, pro se litigants are still bound by procedural rules and deadlines, and courts are not obligated to act as their advocates.
How It's Used
Pro se is used to describe self-represented litigants. It appears in civil and criminal procedure discussions. Courts and practitioners use the term to flag that pleadings should be liberally construed. The alternative term 'pro per' is more common in some state courts, particularly in California.
Example Sentences
The plaintiff filed her complaint pro se, without the assistance of counsel.
Pro se filings are held to a less demanding standard, but the litigant must still comply with the rules of procedure.
The court advised the defendant of his right to counsel before allowing him to proceed pro se at trial.