Represent Yourself in Court: How to Prepare & Try a Winning Case

Sometimes it makes sense to handle a court case without an attorney. Learn about acting as your own lawyer in Nolo's easy-to-use, plain-English guide, Represent Yourself in Court.

This book breaks down the trial process into easy-to-understand steps so that you can act as your own lawyer -- safely and efficiently. Find out what to say, how to say it -- even where to stand when you address the judge and jury. Get details on how to:

• file court papers 
• present an opening statement
• deal with pretrial issues 
• cross-examine hostile witnesses
• handle depositions 
• make and respond to objections
• pick a jury if necessary
• get help from an attorney or 
• discover, obtain and  legal coach
prepare your evidence
• deal with the court clerk and judge
• line up and prepare witnesses

Whether you're a plaintiff or a defendant, this book will help you confidently handle a divorce, personal injury case, landlord/tenant dispute, breach of contract, small business dispute, or any other civil lawsuit.

This edition has been revised with the latest rules and court procedures, and includes updated information on electronic discovery rules and fax filing procedures. Plus, you'll get enhanced materials on court assistance for pro per litigants and an expanded discussion of self-representation in bankruptcy court.