Pro Se Litigants

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Overview
The term "Pro Se" is Latin meaning "for himself; in his own behalf; in person" or as in appearing for oneself. To act as one's own attorney in a civil or criminal matter.

The Constitutions of the United States and the State of Illinois not only guarantee the right to be represented by legal counsel, but also afford to each and every citizen the right of self-representation. This page is a collection of information and resources related to Pro Se (Self-Representative) litigation.

Legal Advice

The information provided on this website and in forms and materials available at the Law Library is not legal advice. There is no substitute for competent legal counsel. If you need legal advice, you should seek the assistance of an attorney.

Judges and employees of the courts, the Law Library, the States Attorney’s Office and the Circuit Clerk’s Office are prohibited from giving legal advice. The Public Defender’s Office may only provide legal advice when appointed by the court to provide representation to individuals in felony or misdemeanor criminal cases and certain cases in the juvenile court (not including divorce). If you cannot afford an attorney, listed below are some contacts to assist you in obtaining legal assistance.
Agency Address Phone Number
Lake County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
300 Grand Avenue
Suite A
Waukegan, IL 60085
847-244-3143
Lake County Public Defender (Criminal Cases Only)
15 S County Street
Waukegan, IL 60085
847-377-3360
Prairie State Legal Services (Civil Cases Only)
325 W Washington Street
Waukegan, IL 60085
800-662-6925
Other Agencies & Resources
NOTE: The Administrative Staff of the Law Library, Courts, Public Defender, States Attorney and the Circuit Clerk’s Office are prohibited by law from giving legal advice. If you need legal advice, you should seek the assistance of an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, listed below are some contacts for obtaining legal assistance.

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