Propria Persona Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Propria Persona, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Propria Persona?

It’s a latin term meaning representing oneself or acting on one’s own behalf.Term commonly used in legal proceedings where a person is representing himself or herself without the help of an attorney.

History and Meaning of Propria Persona

Propria persona is a Latin term that translates to "in one's own person" and it refers to a person who represents themselves or acts on their own behalf without an attorney in legal proceedings. The term has been used for centuries and originally referred to a person's right to defend themselves in court, which was considered a fundamental right by the Roman legal system.

Examples of Propria Persona

  1. John chose to represent himself in court and acted in propria persona during his trial.
  2. Susan couldn't afford a lawyer, so she appeared in court pro se, or in propria persona, to handle her legal case herself.
  3. The judge allowed Bob to represent himself in propria persona during his divorce proceedings.
  4. After being denied a public defender, Jane had no choice but to argue her case in propria persona.

Legal Terms Similar to Propria Persona

  1. Pro se - Another Latin term that means to represent oneself in court.
  2. In forma pauperis - A Latin term meaning "in the manner of a pauper" and refers to a court filing fee waiver granted to individuals who cannot afford to pay the fee.
  3. Self-representation - A more straightforward term that refers to the act of representing oneself in a legal proceeding rather than hiring an attorney.