Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Florida
self representation
If a defendant runs out of money to pay legal fees what are their options? Can they defend themselves? Is there any help they can get to present their case?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: self representation
If the defendant is a corporation, I believe Florida law requires an attorney to defend the corporation. If the defendant is a natural person, then the person may defend himself/herself, but I don't recommend it. Try to find free legal assistance from a legal aid organization. Contact the local Bar organization in the county where the case is pending and request telephone numbers to organizations that provide free legal counsel. Also, if your case involves counterclaims that might lead to the recovery of money, you might be able to retain a lawyer on a contigency fee basis. Good luck.
Re: self representation
The rules are different, between civil and criminal. In the first instance you may proceed on your own, if you are an individual. In th4e latter instance, your attorney is obliged to defend you once court appearance is recorded. The attorney may withdraw after being allowed to by the court.
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