Thinking about representing yourself in court?
So, you've decided to act as your own attorney.
Did you know that courts expect you to know the rules and hold you to the same standards as licensed attorneys?
Representing yourself in court can save you money in the short term. However, it can prove costly if you make mistakes that results in the dismissal of your case; having a judgment entered against you; or having the court order you to pay monetary sanctions.
Consider hiring The Law Office of Jane E. Bednar for limited engagements.
The State Bar of California permits attorneys to assist self-represented ("in pro per") clients on a limited basis.
How does it work?
An attorney can step in (and out again) at just about any point in the case. Some of the most common tasks that attorneys provide for in pro per litigants include the following:
- Drafting the complaint or answer
- Drafting or responding to discovery requests (written requests for information that either side can send to an opponent)
- Taking depositions (pre-trial testimony) of parties or witnesses, or defending YOU during your deposition taken by an opponent
- Making motions to force opponents to provide information (discovery)
- Opposing motions, including motions for summary judgment, which can result in the dismissal of your case without trial
- Making court appearances at hearings and settlement conferences
- Strategizing how to maximize the result you obtain in your case
- Writing settlement demand letters
- Conducting the trial of your case
Typically, an attorney will enter into a written agreement with you to provide the limited services. Also, the attorney may need to file special forms notifying the court that he or she has been retained for the limited engagement.
Don't lose your case because you're self-represented!
Call Attorney Jane E. Bednar for a reduced-fee* half-hour consultation to discuss how I can best assist you in your case.
(831) 601-6381
The Law Office of
Jane E. Bednar offers knowledgeable, high-quality legal representation
to residents of Monterey, Salinas, Pacific Grove, Carmel, Pebble Beach,
Seaside, Carmel Valley, Big Sur, Marina, South Monterey County, and San
Benito County in the areas of personal injury, elder abuse,
professional malpractice, estate litigation, abusive mortgage practices, and defective construction.
* Half-hour consultation fee is $49, payable at time of appointment.
