Includes bibliographical references and index.

Going it alone in court -- The courthouse and the courtroom -- Starting your case -- Pretrial procedures -- Investigating your case -- Settlement -- Pretrial motions -- Proving your case at trial : the plaintiff's perspective -- Proving your case at trial : the defendant's perspective -- Selecting the decision maker -- Opening statement -- Direct examination -- Cross-examination -- Closing argument -- Exhibits -- Basic rules of evidence -- Making and responding to objections -- Organizing a trial notebook -- Expert witnesses -- When your trial ends : judgments and appeals -- Representing yourself in family court -- Representing yourself in bankruptcy court -- Help beyond the book : people, places, and publications.

" 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 - handle depositions and interrogatories - comply with courtroom procedures - pick a jury - prepare your evidence and line up witnesses - present your opening statement and closing argument - cross-examine hostile witnesses - understand and apply rules of evidence - locate, hire and effectively use expert witnesses - make and respond to your opponent's objections - get limited help from an attorney as needed - monitor the work of an attorney if you decide to hire one 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"-- Provided by publisher.

"Be your own lawyer and save on attorney fees -- with help from Represent Yourself in Court. The simple yet thorough instructions you'll find in this complete guide to self-representation in civil court will help you: file court papers prepare your evidence and line up witnesses handle depositions and interrogatories "-- Provided by publisher.