What does it mean if someone is "Pro Se"

When someone is Pro Se (pronounced Pro-Say), it means that they appear for themselves.

See the definition on the Free Dictionary Here .

Some people represent themselves and do not hire a lawyer. This is called Pro Se. 

I have never been Pro Se, but I still highly recommend NOT being Pro Se if you don't have to be. If you don't have a lawyer it means that you have to manage the system and court rules by yourself. Luckily there are resources for those people that need help with this, sometimes even through the court. Like pre-made forms and things like that.

But, at least in my jurisdiction, you can't have a lawyer retained and decide to just be Pro Se for one court date. Either you have a lawyer, or you don't.

Pros (that I have seen) for being Pro Se:

-You don't have to pay a lawyer

-You know your case better than anyone and are able to convey your argument however you want to.

Cons (that I have seen) for being Pro Se:

-Limited to no help legally

-You probably don't have any experience, may come across as cocky for choosing to be Pro Se

Unless you don't have a choice, don't be Pro Se. Lawyers are there to help you understand rules, due dates and timelines, etc. They give you advice. Many times a lawyer will know/have experience your judge or commissioner and be able to give you advice based on how that judge generally rules. I know lots of people who regretted not getting a lawyer in the beginning of their case. A bit of money now could save you the heartache of a bad deal later.

If money is an issue, check in to options for financially struggling or low income families. Legal aid type things. I will do a post on that topic in the future.