What is meant by "pro se" representation?

"Pro se" representation refers to an individual representing themselves in a legal context without the assistance of a lawyer. This term comes from Latin, meaning "for oneself." When a person chooses to navigate the legal system on their own, they take on the responsibility of understanding legal procedures and presenting their case effectively in court.

This self-representation can arise in various legal matters, including civil cases and, in some instances, criminal proceedings. While it can empower individuals to advocate for themselves, it may also pose challenges due to the complexity of legal rules and the potential for misunderstanding procedural nuances.

The other options refer to various forms of legal assistance. Representation by a legal team involves a group of legal professionals working together to advocate for a client, while guided representation by a lawyer would indicate some level of support where the lawyer still has a significant role in managing the case. Representation by a legal assistant suggests that someone is helping a lawyer rather than representing a party in court. These roles highlight the distinction between having legal counsel and choosing to advocate for oneself, which is the essence of "pro se" representation.