4/3's PJ Kathleen O'Leary (aka KO) and 2/7's Justice Zelon have a letter to the editor in today's DJ responding to a recent article about pro pers (
Before Pro Pers in Legal Malpractice Cases, Friday, April 10):
A recent article about pro per parties is sadly based on assumptions not
supported by the realities of today's litigants. Most self-represented litigants are
not vexatious litigants without a case. Instead, the vast majority are
individuals who cannot afford the legal fees necessary to defend their rights,
and are left to handle their cases alone. ....
Moreover, it is not the policy of our courts, nor should it be that of the
bar, to "contain" or "corral" our fellow Californians who
are left without representation. It is the duty of the judge, explained in the
Canons of Judicial Ethics, to "manage the courtroom in a manner that
provides all litigants the opportunity to have their matters fairly
adjudicated." All who appear in our courtrooms should be respectful of the
justice system. Fair treatment and respect should be afforded to everyone,
regardless of their representation status. All those who seek justice should
also seek to ensure that the matters in which they are involved are determined
fairly.