State of Minnesota County Judicial District: Court File Number: Case Type: District Court Plaintiff/Petitioner vs. Rights and Duties of Self-Represented Parties Minn. Stat. §549.211 Defendant/Respondent Purpose: To help you understand what your rights are if you choose to represent yourself. 1. You have a right to be represented by an attorney. Under some circumstances you may get an attorney at no cost. 2. You have a right to represent yourself. 3. If you represent yourself, you must obey the same rules as an attorney. [Rule 1.04 of the General Rules of Practice for District Courts]. 4. You cannot file a lawsuit for the wrong reasons. For example, you cannot file a lawsuit to harass another person, cause delay or needlessly increase the cost of litigation, or commit a fraud upon the court. If you file your lawsuit for the wrong reason, you may have to pay attorneys fees and court costs to the other party. [Rule 11 of the Minn. Rules of Civil Procedure and Minn. Stat. §549.211.] 5. If you choose to represent yourself, you may use state and county law libraries. The Court Administrator's office will tell you the location of the nearest law library. 6. Clerks and court administrators cannot give you legal advice if you choose to represent yourself. I have read and understand my rights and duties. I am filing this lawsuit in good faith and I believe I am justified by law in bringing this action. Dated: Signature Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Telephone: ( E-mail address: OTH101 State ENG Rev 7/15 www.mncourts.gov/forms Page 1 of 1 American LegalNet, Inc. www.FormsWorkFlow.com )