Legal Definitions - in propria persona

Definition: In propria persona is a Latin phrase that means "for oneself." It is used to describe a person who represents themselves in court without the help of a lawyer. This term is also known as "pro se."

It is important to note that only individuals are allowed to appear in propria persona. A corporation, even though it is treated as a natural person, cannot appear in propria persona. For example, in the case of Osborn v. Bank of US, it was held that a corporation "must always appear by attorney, either to institute or defend a legal proceeding. It cannot appear in person, and it can only constitute an attorney by written power, under its common seal."

When a non-lawyer files their own legal papers, they are expected to write "in pro per" under their name in the heading on the first page.

Example: John is representing himself in court for a traffic violation. He is appearing in propria persona because he cannot afford a lawyer.

Explanation: John is representing himself in court without the help of a lawyer. He is appearing in propria persona because he cannot afford a lawyer.