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Filing Without an Attorney

This page contains information to help people with filing civil lawsuits in a federal court without legal representation.
Proceeding without a lawyer is called proceeding "pro se", a Latin phrase meaning "for oneself"


Self Help – Document Preparation Program - Electronic Pro Se

This program is not intended to be a substitute for an attorney or to provide you legal advice, it is designed to help you fill out the following documents you intend to file with the Court:

  • Private Pro Se Complaint (Non-Prisoner)
  • Petition Under 28 U.S.C. 2254 For a Writ Of Habeas Corpus By a Person In State Custody Pursuant to a Judgment of Sentence
  • Motion Under 28 U.S.C. 2255 to Vacate, Set Aside, or Correct a Sentence by a Person In Federal Custody
  • Petition Under 28 U.S.C. 2241 for a Writ of Habeas Corpus
  • Prisoner pro se complaint

At the end of this program, you will be able to edit and print a copy of all of your documents needed to start your lawsuit.

Pro Se Package - A Simple Guide to Filing a Civil Action

Pro Se Handbook - A Guide to Self-Representation

Reference Materials

Forms