What is a pro se litigant?

A pro se litigant is someone who represents themselves in court proceedings without the help of a lawyer. This is most common in small claims courts, where attorneys are not allowed. In California, pro se litigants are sometimes called self-represented litigants. Pro se litigants must understand the law and court procedures involved in the case. This includes researching the legal issues at hand, preparing documents, filing complaints, forming a legal argument, and representing themselves in court proceedings. It requires knowledge of court rules and procedures, and the ability to think and act strategically. It is important for pro se litigants to be familiar with the applicable laws in their case and to prepare well for court proceedings. Best practices include being organized, researching the applicable law, preparing documents, making sure all documents are in order, presenting a complete argument, and being prepared for any questions asked by the judge or opposing counsel. The most important thing for a pro se litigant is to act professionally in court. Every action the litigant takes impacts their credibility in court, and affects the outcome of the case. Pro se litigants should be aware of court rules and procedures, and should act in a manner that instills confidence in the court.

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