Our Founder's Journey
My journey started in a place I never imagined—behind bars. I spent over eight years in prison as a first-time offender, navigating a complex and often unforgiving legal system. During my trial, I hired five different attorneys, each time hoping for better representation. What I learned was harsh but true: when you lack resources, the quality of legal service you receive often reflects that.
My life was on the line, and while I was the one most invested in it, I longed for an attorney who shared that sense of urgency. For some, representing someone in court is just a job. For me, it was everything. When I realized this, I took matters into my own hands, fighting for my freedom alongside my attorneys when I had one—and alone when I didn't.
"I witnessed countless people in the law library, fighting hopeless battles, limited by education, resources, and the daunting nature of the process itself. Many gave up. This experience became the foundation of Pro Se It Ain't So."
The task of doing your own legal work can feel insurmountable, especially if you have no prior experience. Thankfully, I had worked as an executive legal assistant and had always taken an interest in the law. But for the average incarcerated individual, the challenges are staggering.
I was fortunate to achieve some successes during my journey—winning appeal bail, filing a 440 motion, even getting my indictment dismissed (though the decision was later reversed). Those victories taught me how much determination and knowledge matter, but they also illuminated the barriers so many others face.
At Pro Se It Ain't So, we believe no one should have to give up simply because they lack access to professional document services. We're here to help you present your materials professionally—because with the right support, "pro se" doesn't have to mean struggling alone with document preparation.
"The goal is for documents from self-represented individuals to look professional and well-organized—hence the name Pro Se It Ain't So."
