Pro per / in propria persona
For one's own person. In California practice, a pro per litigant represents themself without an attorney.
Pro per vocabulary
Common Legal Latin Terms
Legal Latin can make ordinary procedural ideas feel locked behind a wall. This page translates common terms into plain English so you can read papers, minute orders, and tentative rulings with more confidence.
Educational only, not legal advice
Lawzuit is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, legal opinions, strategy, document review, or representation. These materials are general education for self-represented users. Court rules, local rules, judge preferences, statutes, and deadlines can change and may depend on your case. Consult official court sources or a licensed attorney for legal advice.
Pro se
For oneself. A federal and general term for self-representation.
Prima facie
At first appearance. A showing that appears sufficient unless the other side rebuts it.
Stare decisis
To stand by things decided. Courts generally follow controlling precedent.
Res judicata
A matter already judged. A final judgment can prevent relitigating the same claim.
Collateral estoppel
Issue preclusion. A decided issue may not be relitigated between affected parties.
Ex parte
From one party. A request made on shortened notice or without the ordinary full briefing schedule.
Sua sponte
Of its own accord. Something the court does without a party asking.
Amicus curiae
Friend of the court. A nonparty who offers information or briefing with court permission.
Subpoena
Under penalty. A command to appear, testify, or produce records.
Affidavit
He or she has sworn. A sworn written statement; California civil practice often uses declarations instead.
Mandamus
We command. A writ asking a higher court to order an official or lower court to perform a duty.
Habeas corpus
You have the body. A writ challenging unlawful detention.
In limine
At the threshold. A motion asking the court to rule on evidence before trial begins.
Nunc pro tunc
Now for then. An order correcting the record to reflect what should have been entered earlier.
Per curiam
By the court. An appellate decision issued in the court's name rather than a named judge.
De novo
Anew. A fresh review without deferring to the previous decision.
Ultra vires
Beyond the powers. An act outside legal authority.
Mens rea
Guilty mind. A criminal-law term about mental state; less common in civil cases.
Caveat
Let the person beware. A warning to pay attention before acting.