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 Texas, '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. Texas courts allow individuals to appear pro se, but they must comply with the same rules and procedures as attorneys. However, when it comes to legal entities such as corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, or other types of organizations, Texas law requires that they be represented by a licensed attorney in court. These entities cannot appear pro se because they can only act through agents, and the law requires that such agents be licensed attorneys when representing the entity in legal proceedings.