Pro se legal representation (/ˌproʊ ˈsiː/ or /ˌproʊ ˈseɪ/) comes from Latin pro se, meaning "for oneself" or "on behalf of themselves", which in modern law means to argue on one's own behalf in a legal proceeding as a defendant or plaintiff in civil cases or a defendant in criminal cases.
Abraham Lincoln reportedly employed the following adage. Here are two versions: If you are your own lawyer you have a fool for a client. He who represents himself has a fool for a client.
The Addams Family: "They say a man who represents himself has a fool for a client. Well, with God as my witness, I am that fool!"
Example #2: “Like a man who is his own lawyer has a fool for a client, he thinks that he cannot succeed in life if he continues defending himself.” In this sentence, the proverb has been used as a simile for the person who thinks that he cannot defend himself.
In criminal cases heard in NSW, the law is that an accused person can be represented either by themselves, by their lawyer, or by anyone else who the court permits to represent them.
When representing yourself in court, there's a risk that you may become defensive, angry and upset when the charges or evidence are presented to the court. Your every word, action and expression will be scrutinised in the courtroom and your response could influence the judge or jury's decision in a negative way.
Benjamin Franklin Quotes A countryman between two lawyers is like a fish between two cats.