Propria Persona Pro Se-What are the basics in representing oneself in Family Court?

Answer 1

Often people wonder about the feasibility of representing themselves in court, Propria Persona (Pro Se). It is possible, though not recommended under many circumstances, but you do have the legal right to represent yourself in court. Representing yourself requires a lot of work AND at least some money. The following suggestions are not inclusive, but do cover the basics of preparation for representing yourself in court. Beyond this, you should search the internet for attorneys who provide help in Propria Persona Cases. Also, check on Document Prep Services for creating you Court Motions.

You should buy a copy of "Black's Law Dictionary"and your local court rules. You

should be able to get a copy of your local court rules from the clerk of court. You also will need access to your state's: "Rules of the Court"; "Family Codes"; "Criminal Penal Code"; "Family Law Practice Manual"; "Dorsaneo Litigation Guide";and the laws of torts. All the above books can be found at a county law library, a university law library, or your state's Bar Association.

The average amount of time required to read the above listed books and get an idea of what is going on and the procedures required to write your own "Motion" or "Response" is about 200 man hours. You must literally study these books and ask questions of others who've done Pro Se, attorneys, and judges. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you decide to represent yourself, plan on spending a great deal of your free time at the law library and on your word processor.

If you approach the legal system with a negative attitude, you will lose. You must, at all times, have a positive, winning attitude. There is no place in town for you to buy a "winning attitude." You must develop and maintain your winning, positive attitude.

This is a lot like a doctor's bedside manner. You must learn how to conduct yourself in a Court of Law. You must learn how to dress yourself in appropriate clothing when appearing before the Court. Learn how to smile. Learn the procedures. Learn the court clerk's name, the bailiff's name, the court reporter's name, and most importantly, the Judge's name. Establish a friendly rapport with these people. You want to establish, in their minds, that you are a nice person, a responsible person, and a caring person.