What does “pro se” mean? Filing for divorce without a lawyer

Pro se, explained

Pro se (Latin for "for oneself"; you may also see "self-represented" or "pro per") means you handle your own legal case without hiring an attorney. It is a right in every US court. For divorce, most uncontested cases — where both spouses agree the marriage is over and can agree on the terms — are handled pro se every day.

Is filing pro se right for your divorce?

It’s usually a good fit when: you both agree on the divorce; you can agree on dividing property and debts; and any parenting time and support are worked out (or straightforward).

Talk to a lawyer when: you disagree about custody or money; one spouse hides assets or won’t cooperate; there’s a family business or significant property; or there has been any abuse. You can start pro se and bring in a lawyer at any point.

How to file pro se, step by step

The exact forms and waiting periods vary by state, but the path is similar everywhere: confirm you meet the residency rule, complete your state’s divorce forms, file them with the court (and pay the fee or request a waiver), serve your spouse, complete any financial and child-support paperwork, and wait out your state’s period before the judge signs your decree. Choose your state for the exact steps:

Frequently asked questions

What does pro se mean?

Pro se (also "self-represented" or "pro per") means you handle your own case without hiring a lawyer. Courts allow it, and for an uncontested divorce it is very common.

Can I really get divorced without a lawyer?

Yes — if your divorce is uncontested (you both agree, or your spouse won’t oppose it), you can file the court’s own forms yourself. LawCat prepares them for free and walks you through filing.

When should I hire a lawyer instead?

Talk to a lawyer if you disagree about custody or money, one spouse hides assets or won’t cooperate, there’s a business or significant property to divide, or there has been any abuse.