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 Massachusetts, individuals have the right to represent themselves in court, a practice known as 'pro se' representation. This applies to both civil and criminal cases. Pro se litigants are expected to understand and follow the same rules as attorneys, including procedural rules and court etiquette. 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. These entities cannot appear pro se because they are separate legal entities from their owners and members, and the law requires that an attorney act on their behalf in legal proceedings.