. . . to serve the interests of justice and the public by resolving matters brought before it in a fair, timely, efficient and open manner.
Representing Yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I get some general information on representing myself?
- What are some tips for representing myself?
- Can I look at my court case?
- Where can I find out about court resources and forms?
- What should you do to get ready for a court hearing?
- Common Legal Words
1. Can I get some general information on representing myself?
- You have a right to represent yourself in all court cases. Representing yourself is called acting pro se. Pro Se is a Latin phrase that means "for yourself."
- In some cases, like landlord/tenant and family, the court has developed easy-to-read court forms to help non-lawyers. Simplified court rules help non-lawyers in other cases, like small claims cases.
- The Branch has also developed easy-to-follow videos to help non-lawyers, such as Connecticut Civil Lawsuit: First Steps as a Defendant.
- Before deciding to represent yourself, you may want to consult a lawyer. Many lawyers offer free or inexpensive initial consultations.
- Frequently Asked Questions about Lawyers
2. What are some tips for representing myself?
- You must file an "Appearance" Form (JD-CL-12) with the court clerk's office. It includes your name, address, telephone number, and signature. It tells the court that you are representing yourself. Filing it allows the court to contact you about all court events in your case. There is a How-To Video on Filling out Appearance Form JD-CL-12.
- You must follow the same court rules as lawyers. Connecticut court rules are described in the Connecticut Practice Book. It is available on this website at Court Rules, at all Court Service Centers, and in all courthouse Law Libraries.
- Court clerks can give you information only. They cannot give you legal advice, such as telling you what you should do or what option makes the most sense in your particular case.
- Courthouse law librarians can show you how to research a legal question or issue, or where to find a particular case or court form.
- You may want to talk to a lawyer about your case before deciding to represent yourself.
- Court cases are usually public records. You have a right to review the complete court file of your case. Go to the clerk's office during business hours and ask to review your file.
- Obtain information about your civil or family case electronically.
4. Where can I find out about court resources and forms?
- The Superior Court has booklets and informational materials for the person who wants to represent himself or herself. These materials are available at court clerk's offices or Court Service Centers.
- Some court forms have been designed especially for self-represented people:
- Appearance Form JD-CL-12 -- How-To Video on Filling out Appearance Form
- Family Forms - Publications
- Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines
- Landlord/Tenant Forms - Publications
- Booklet - "A Landlord's Guide to Summary Process (Eviction)" - JDP-HM-14
- Booklet - "A Tenant's Guide to Summary Process (Eviction)" - JDP-HM-15
- Booklet - "The Small Claims Process" - JDP-CV-45
The courthouse Law Libraries maintain self-help materials and aids for persons representing themselves. These aids are called pathfinders and give you a broad overview of a topic and a starting place for your research. Ask at the law library for the "Pathfinder" on your topic.
5. What should you do to get ready for a court hearing?
This video produced
by the CT Network for Legal Aid
covers things you need to know about getting ready for a court hearing,
including what to wear, who to bring with you and what happens when you see
the judge.
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