In California, the law allows you to represent yourself in a personal injury case, a process known as acting pro se. While it may seem like a way to save money on attorney fees, representing yourself can be far more complicated and risky than most people realize.

There are also certain situations where you cannot represent yourself, including:

• Suing on behalf of a business or company
• Filing a class-action lawsuit
• Bringing a claim on behalf of a child

If you’re considering representing yourself in a personal injury case, here’s what you need to know.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit on Your Own

If you choose self-representation, you’ll be responsible for every step of your case, including:

1. Filing Your Claim – You must file the lawsuit with the appropriate court clerk’s office and pay the filing fee.
2. Gathering Evidence – This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene.
3. Handling Discovery – If the defendant hires a lawyer, you may be required to answer questions under oath (a deposition) and provide documents in accordance with discovery rules.
4. Negotiating a Settlement – Most personal injury cases settle before trial. You’ll need to evaluate whether an offer is fair without professional guidance.
5. Going to Trial – If you can’t reach a settlement, you’ll need to represent yourself in court against experienced defense attorneys.

The Risks of Accepting an Early Settlement

Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers, hoping you’ll accept less than you deserve. Without an attorney, you may not realize the full value of your case. A personal injury lawyer can:

• Accurately calculate current and future medical expenses
• Evaluate lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Assess damages for pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Negotiate aggressively to maximize your compensation

Accepting the first settlement offer without legal advice could leave you struggling to cover ongoing medical care or long-term financial losses.

What Qualifies as a Personal Injury Claim?

Not every injury gives rise to a personal injury lawsuit. Common valid claims include:

• Car Accidents caused by reckless or negligent drivers
• Defective Products with dangerous designs or manufacturing flaws
• Assault or Battery resulting in physical injury
• Premises Liability Accidents, such as slip-and-falls on unsafe property

To succeed, you must prove that another party’s negligence or wrongful actions directly caused your injuries and related expenses.

Why Self-Representation Is Risky

While you have the legal right to represent yourself, the reality is that you’ll likely face a defense attorney with years of experience and access to significant resources. Without the same knowledge and tools, it can be extremely difficult to build a strong case.

Even one mistake such as missing a filing deadline, failing to follow court procedures, or saying the wrong thing in a deposition could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.

How Hillstone Law Can Help

At Hillstone Law, we know the challenges accident victims face after a serious injury. Our California personal injury attorneys can:

• Handle all communications with insurance companies
• Gather and present evidence to support your claim
• Accurately calculate the value of your case
• Negotiate for a fair settlement
• Take your case to trial if necessary

Best of all, you pay no upfront or out-of-pocket fees we only get paid if we win your case.

Contact Hillstone Law Today

If you’ve been injured in California, don’t risk your future by representing yourself. Contact Hillstone Law today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.