The one who turns every litigation decision into a battle royale. The one who makes threats about lawsuits, deadlines and strategies.Opposing counsel are obligated to communicate outside the courtroom. Federal Rules of Civil Procedure require that we attest to having done so. If you are a pro se litigant, this guide will help you to understand some of the legal terms you are likely to hear as your case proceeds. While trial counsel's representation of a non-party witness may not be outright prohibited, it is often, at the very least, fraught with peril. The Illinois courts have held that orders entered without notice to opposing counsel are void. In. City of Chicago v. The attorney analyzes the evidence and attempts to convince the jury to decide in favor of his or her side of the case. The court may grant a motion for the appointment of a master in a civil action where the parties stipulate in writing to such an appointment.