Pro se (pro-say) means to argue on one’s own behalf in a court or other legal proceeding—also referred to as representing yourself in court or self-representation. A person can appear pro se in a civil or criminal case, but only a licensed lawyer can appear in court on behalf of a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other legal entity.
In Alabama, 'pro se' representation refers to the practice of an individual representing themselves in a legal proceeding without the assistance of an attorney. This is permissible in both civil and criminal cases. However, when it comes to legal entities such as corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, or other types of organizations, they must be represented by a licensed attorney in court. Alabama law, like that of other states, recognizes that legal entities can only act through agents, and the courts require that such agents be attorneys licensed to practice law. This is to ensure that the entity's legal rights are adequately protected and that legal proceedings are conducted with the necessary professional standards.