You start a lawsuit by filing a complaint. In some circumstances, you file a petition or a motion. The court has several complaint forms that you may use in drafting your complaint. The forms are available online and at the Pro Se Intake Unit.
Many people have successfully represented themselves. Others have gone to court and found that their case was more complicated or that the court process was more difficult than they expected. These are some things to consider when deciding whether to represent yourself: Are you good at completing paperwork?
Generally, judges hold self-represented litigants to the same standards of professional responsibility as trained attorneys. If you do not hire an attorney, you must become familiar with the statutes, case law, and procedural rules that apply to your case.
If you want to file a motion, the process is generally something like this: You write your motion. You file your motion with the court clerk. The court clerk inserts the date and time your motion will be heard by the judge. You “serve” (mail) your motion to the other side.
Generally, judges hold self-represented litigants to the same standards of professional responsibility as trained attorneys. If you do not hire an attorney, you must become familiar with the statutes, case law, and procedural rules that apply to your case.
Proceeding without a lawyer is called proceeding “pro se,” a Latin phrase meaning “for oneself.” Representing yourself in a lawsuit can be complicated, time consuming, and costly. Failing to follow court procedures can mean losing your case. For these reasons, you are urged to work with a lawyer if possible.
You cannot go and speak to the judge without the prosecutor being included in the conversation. But if you really want to do this, speak with the public defender for that court and ask if they will help you get on the docket for a plea change.
Disadvantages of self-representation Not being familiar with the Law, Defenses, Court procedures and Negotiations. Not knowing about “Plea Bargaining” and other Resolution Considerations. Not understanding potential outcomes.
Generally, the answer is no (at least not for an extension of time). The only motions that need to be notarized are verified motions, such as summary judgment.
Write your legal argument by stating the rule and explaining how your facts apply to it. Then, add your signature, a Certificate of Service, and a Notice of Hearing. File your motion with the clerk of court overseeing your case. Then, give copies to each defendant.