American facing legal problems have two choices when it comes to legal representation. They can hire a lawyer, or they can represent themselves–informally, in situations outside of court, or formally, as pro se litigants, in court. This right is constitutionally protected in criminal cases and is almost universally recognized in typical civil matters. Traditionally, those representing themselves had few options for assistance. They could turn to the informal advice of “neighbors, friends, co-workers, religious advisors, teachers,” and the like, purchase a self-help book, or retain a scrivener or document preparer (although he or she would be prohibited from dispensing legal advice).
