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 Hawaii, 'pro se' representation refers to the act of an individual representing themselves in a legal proceeding without the assistance of an attorney. This is permissible in both civil and criminal cases for individuals. 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. Hawaii law, similar to other jurisdictions, does not allow non-human entities to appear in court pro se because they can only act through agents, and the law requires that such agents be licensed attorneys. This ensures that the entity's legal rights are adequately protected and that legal proceedings maintain a level of professional conduct and understanding of legal principles.