Pro se

What pro se means

Put simply, pro se is part of the working vocabulary of a civil case. The short definition above covers the usual meaning. Still, a specific rule, statute or contract can give it a narrower meaning. For that reason, check how it is used in your own documents.

Where pro se comes up

The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.

How to research the term

To research pro se, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.

You can read the current federal court rules online for free.

Related legal terms

• Primary source: the law itself: constitutions, statutes, court rules, regulations and court decisions.
• Privilege: a legal right to withhold certain information from discovery or testimony, such as attorney-client privilege.
• Promissory note: a written promise by one party to pay a sum of money to another. Many promissory notes are negotiable instruments under UCC Article 3.
• Protective order: a court order limiting discovery to protect a party or person from annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden or expense.

Why precise terms matter

Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.