Legal Definitions - propria persona

Propria persona, also known as pro per, is a legal term that refers to individuals who represent themselves in court without the help of a lawyer. This means that they act as their own attorney.

For example, if someone is facing a criminal trial and decides to represent themselves instead of hiring a lawyer, they are acting in propria persona.

Representing oneself in court can be challenging, as individuals may not have the same knowledge and experience as a trained lawyer. However, the Supreme Court of the United States has ruled that individuals have the right to represent themselves if they knowingly and intelligently choose to do so.

It is important for individuals to understand the disadvantages of self-representation so that they can make an informed decision. By choosing to represent themselves, they may miss out on certain benefits that come with having a lawyer, such as legal expertise and guidance.