Resources for Self-Represented Litigants

Representing yourself in court can feel overwhelming. These resources are designed to help you understand the process, prepare responsibly, and move forward with greater confidence—without legal jargon or pressure.
These materials are educational and informational only. They are not legal advice.

This book is a firsthand account of navigating the court system without an attorney. It shares practical experience, real challenges, and reflections from the perspective of someone who has stood where many self-represented litigants stand today.

Featured Resource

Against All Objections: A Pro Se Journey

Who this book is for:
  • Individuals forced to represent themselves due to cost

  • First-time litigants who feel unprepared or intimidated

  • Anyone seeking clarity, encouragement, and realism about the court process

The goal is not to teach the law—but to help you understand the experience.

“Pro se” means representing yourself in court without a lawyer. Courts allow self-representation, but expect pro se litigants to follow the same rules and procedures as attorneys.

Court Basics & Education

What Does “Pro Se” Mean?
What to Expect in Court

While every court is different, most proceedings follow a structured format:

  • Filing documents

  • Attending hearings

  • Presenting evidence

  • Following procedural and evidentiary rules

Preparation and organization matter.

These guides explain how court processes generally work, without giving legal advice or jurisdiction-specific instructions.

Procedural Guides

Common Topics:
  • How court filings typically work

  • Understanding deadlines and service requirements

  • Preparing for a hearing

  • Organizing documents and evidence

  • What happens during a motion hearing

These guides focus on process, not strategy.

Legal language can be confusing and intimidating. This section breaks down common terms into everyday language.

Plain-Language Legal Terms

These explanations are intended to help you understand what you are reading—not tell you what to file or argue.

Examples include:
  • Motion

  • Affidavit

  • Service

  • Jurisdiction

  • Ex-parte

  • Objection

Preparation reduces stress and mistakes. These checklists are designed to help you stay organized.

Checklists (Non-Legal)

Available Checklists:
  • Hearing preparation checklist

  • Court day checklist

  • Case organization checklist

  • Evidence preparation checklist

These tools help you prepare responsibly and systematically.
ProSeGuardian includes AI-assisted tools to help with organization, understanding, and preparation.

Important: Using AI Tools

  • Explaining court procedures in plain language

  • Organizing case information

  • Drafting general templates and script outlines for review and editing

  • Clarifying unfamiliar terms or forms

We use AI to help with:
We Do Not use AI to:
  • Provide legal advice

  • Tell you what arguments to make

  • Guarantee outcomes

You remain responsible for all filings and decisions.

We encourage users to consult additional reputable sources.

External Help & Public Resources

Helpful external resources may include:
  • Court self-help websites

  • Legal aid organizations

  • Public law libraries

  • Official court rules and forms

Using multiple sources strengthens understanding.

ProSeGuardian is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. All content on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Laws and procedures vary by jurisdiction. You are responsible for complying with the rules that apply to your case.

Important Notice

Contact Us

Reach out with questions about our tools and educational resources.
ProSeGuardian