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Many people have successfully represented themselves. Others have gone to court and found that their case was more complicated or that the court process was more difficult than they expected. These are some things to consider when deciding whether to represent yourself: Are you good at completing paperwork?

Some defendants choose to represent themselves because they have lost confidence in defense lawyers following a previous negative experience, although this may not have been the lawyer's fault. Other defendants distrust the system and feel that going outside it makes a statement of resistance.

To do so, you need to file a form called an ?In Forma Pauperis? form, or ?IFP? for short. Do I Need Witnesses? Witnesses can testify about facts to help tell your story. They should know the case and have seen or heard the evidence themselves.

You have a right to represent yourself (appear ?pro se?). However, you should not expect any special treatment or assistance from the court, and you must follow all of the Court Rules. If you do not follow the rules, the court may not be allowed to give you what you want, even if it seems like you should win the case.

IN THIS 1975 DECISION, THE SUPREME COURT HELD THAT IMPLIED IN THE SIXTH AMENDMENT IS AN INDEPENDENT CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT OF SELF-REPRESENTATION WHICH A DEFENDANT MAY EXERCISE. THE COURT, HOWEVER, REQUIRED THAT WAIVER OF THE RIGHT TO COUNSEL HAD TO BE MADE KNOWINGLY, INTELLIGENTLY, AND VOLUNTARILY.

Definitions. Self-Represented Litigant: A person (party) who advocates on his or her own behalf before a court, rather than being represented by an attorney. These litigants are also known as pro se or pro per litigants. Cases with Self-Represented Litigants: Legal cases in which one or more parties is self-represented ...