Home » Content » Representing Yourself in Court

Representing Yourself in Court

If you are handling your legal case without a lawyer, you are “representing yourself.” The courts call this “pro se.”  You do not have to have a lawyer to handle a legal problem. But it’s best to get advice and information about your case from a lawyer.

These resources can help you if you do not have your own lawyer.

Court Resources

  • Each court has its own set of Local Rules that you and the lawyers must follow.
  • Some courts have websites with information about their courts. To find out if your court has a website, click on your county on this map or list of counties in Tennessee.
  • How to File and Appeal at the Appellate Court. This guide is for people who lost their case and want to appeal to a higher court. The Appellate Court Clerk's webpage explains appellate court rules and how to contact the Appellate Court Clerk by email.

For more resources and information, go to:

Legal Aid Resources

There are many legal aid agencies that help people who do not have lawyers. These agencies may help you or give you information about your legal problem.

Important!  Court employees are not allowed to make referrals to lawyers, do legal research, or give legal advice.