pro se—representing yourself

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 Michigan, 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. This requirement is based on the principle that legal entities are separate from their shareholders or members and need a professional to represent their collective interests. The courts in Michigan typically provide resources and sometimes special procedures to assist pro se litigants, but they are held to the same standards as those represented by attorneys in terms of court procedures and legal obligations.

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Criminal procedure