How can I represent myself in court?

A pro se litigant is one who acts on his own behalf, someone who represents himself or herself without a lawyer. Although not recommended, each party in a legal case has the right to appear pro se. Should you decide to represent yourself, please be mindful of the following things:

  • The Clerk of Court, the Clerk of Court’s staff, the judge or his/her staff cannot offer any assistance or legal advice. A member of the SC. bar will answer legal questions at no charge 803-799-6653.
  • Judges may not discuss a case outside the presence of the adverse party. Do not contact the Judge outside of a courtroom, whether by phone, by letter or in person.
  • You must prepare your own case. This includes preparing the proper pleadings and court documents, presenting all relevant evidence supporting your position, objecting to irrelevant or inadmissible evidence, and arguing the applicable law.
  • You are responsible for compliance with the South Carolina Rule of Family, the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure, and appropriate courtroom conduct.
  • You must file a financial declaration.

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1. Where do I obtain a passport application?
2. Where do I obtain a Notary Public application?
3. Where can I find a list of qualified bail bondsmen for Georgetown County?
4. How do I view a complete schedule of all criminal cases coming up for trial?
5. Does your office provide legal advice?
6. How do I hire a public defender?
7. How do I check on the status of my case? How do I discover the outcome of my case? How do I review case files?
8. How do I inquire about my case by telephone?
9. How do I review my file? How do I obtain copies of my file?
10. How do I obtain a criminal record report? Will your office complete a criminal background check?
11. What is "expunged?"
12. How do I know if my records are eligible for expunging?
13. How do I get my criminal record expunged?
14. How can I represent myself in court?