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 Indiana, as in other states, individuals have the right to represent themselves in court without an attorney, a practice known as 'pro se' representation. This applies to both civil and criminal cases. However, while individuals can appear pro se, corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, and other legal entities must be represented by a licensed attorney in court. Indiana courts provide various resources to assist pro se litigants, such as self-help legal centers and online information. Nonetheless, pro se litigants are expected to understand and follow the same rules as attorneys, including procedural rules and court etiquette. It's important for pro se litigants to carefully consider the complexities of their case and the potential disadvantages of self-representation, such as lack of legal knowledge and skills, before deciding to proceed without an attorney.