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Filing Without an Attorney

Welcome to the Western District of Louisiana's webpage for individuals representing themselves in federal court. When you proceed in court without the assistance of an attorney, you are proceeding pro se, which is Latin for "in one's own behalf."

The information on this website is intended to be informative and practical for pro se litigants and is not meant to be a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney. The court strongly encourages you to seek legal counsel when filing a case in federal court.

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For information about representing yourself in a civil case in this court, read our HANDBOOK: INFORMATION ON FILING A LAWSUIT IN FEDERAL COURT WITHOUT A LAWYER . NOTE: This handbook is not intended for prisoners who file civil rights suits or petitions for habeas corpus. The Clerk of Court can provide special forms to be used in those kinds of cases.