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 Tennessee, 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. Tennessee law, following the principle established in federal and state case law, does not allow non-attorney representation for such entities because they are considered separate legal 'persons' and the representation would constitute the unauthorized practice of law.