Representing Yourself in Court

For many, it is difficult to decide whether or not to hire a lawyer. Below is a list of examples to help you decide whether you should represent yourself or if you should hire a lawyer. Note that these are only examples.

If you are not sure if you need or want a lawyer, you should get legal advice before making a final decision. Many lawyers offer free consultations where they will give you brief advice for free.  Also, many lawyers now offer "limited scope" services so you can pay for just a limited service (such as drafting paperwork) without hiring the lawyer for full representation. Go to Find a Lawyer for links to search for a lawyer online.

NOTE: A corporation or LLC must be represented by an attorney in District Court, which includes having a lawyer sign court papers on behalf of the client-corporation or LLC.

EXCEPTION: For cases limited to the Hennepin County "Housing Court," MN Gen. Rule of Practice 603 may allow a principal (or agent) of the corporation or LLC to sign court papers or appear in court on behalf of the business entity. You should get legal advice if you have questions about this issue in your case.

Many lawyers offer consultations where they will give you brief advice for free.  There are other free or low-cost options which may be available to you, including free legal advice clinics. Also, many lawyers now offer "limited scope" services so you can pay for just a limited service (such as drafting paperwork) without hiring the lawyer for full representation. Go to Find a Lawyer for links to search for a lawyer online.

Conciliation Court, also known as "small claims court," is designed for people who represent themselves without a lawyer. However, you still may hire lawyer to represent you if you wish to do so. The Conciliation Court can hear certain types of claims for a limited amount of money. Visit the Conciliation Court Help Topic for more details on the types of claims and amount of money that can be handled in Conciliation Court when deciding whether to hire an lawyer.

In some circumstances, taking a dispute to court may not be the best option. To explore other alternatives, please visit the Settle out of Court Help Topic. If you are unsure whether to solve your legal problem in court or by one of the alternative methods, please talk with a lawyer.

You can use this website to learn more about legal information, court forms, and procedures. You can even fill out certain court forms through Minnesota Guide & File, which is an online interview tool that helps people fill out and electronically file court forms. The MN Judicial Branch website is organized by legal topic, with links that connect you to other organizations that offer legal help and information. LawHelpMN.org is another website with helpful information for people who are representing themselves.

Some courts have Self-Help Centers with staff who can answer questions about court forms and processes. Law Librarians can also direct you to legal materials and help with legal research. Many courthouses have free legal advice clinics as well. To see if your court has a Self-Help Center or a free legal advice clinic, go to the Self-Help Center Help Topic. 

You can also ask a lawyer to help you with certain parts of your case but still represent yourself. A lawyer can coach you or do research for you and can help you understand what is involved in representing yourself. Go to Find a Lawyer for more information.

Please visit the Tools and Resources tab for additional resources if you are representing yourself in court.

We strongly encourage you to talk with a lawyer if you are not sure what to do in your case.