Self-represented litigants are those who represent themselves in court without an attorney. Self-represented litigants are also known as pro se litigants. Pro se is a Latin term that means "on one's own behalf". There are different reasons why people choose to represent themselves, the main one being that legal services are expensive. Whatever the reason, trying to navigate the judicial process alone can be confusing and intimidating.
The purpose of this LibGuide is to provide self-represented persons with information that can be helpful when preparing for court. The information provided is not meant to be taken as legal advice.
The process begins when you have filed a complaint against someone, or you have been served notice (usually by the county sheriff) that a complaint has been filed against you.
Any communication with the court is done through the county clerk’s office. This is where complaints, answers, motions, and other pleadings are filed. Please check with your county clerk’s office for hours and location, as well as filing fees.
See Alabama Judicial Circuits for a map of all the judicial circuits in the state and links to the websites for all county Clerks’ offices.
The Administrative Office of Courts (AOC) has statewide forms which can be downloaded to your computer. These forms are fillable and can be accessed at Alabama E-forms.
Alafile is an application administered by the Administrative Office of Courts that allows you to electronically file documents (pleadings, motions, etc.); as well as receive email notices when the other party has filed court documents. You will also receive notices when the Court has entered any orders in your case. Alafile is a free service, however, it does require registration. See https://alafile.alacourt.gov/.
It is important that you are prepared for your hearing. Not being prepared increases your chances of an unfavorable outcome.
Being prepared is knowing the law as it relates to your case. Please be mindful that although you are representing yourself, you are still responsible for knowing the law and the rules of court. (See Finding the Law, for the Code of Alabama and the Alabama Rules of Court.)
Being prepared also means having all your relevant documents organized and ready to bring to court.
These tips from the Alabama Access to Justice Commission can be helpful as you prepare for your day in court.
The Alabama State Bar has legal resources and information available at the following link:
Here are some websites that can be good starting points for finding legal information.
