What does 'In Pro Per' mean in legal practice?

In legal practice, the term 'In Pro Per' refers to an individual who represents themselves in a legal proceeding, rather than being represented by an attorney. This means that the person is taking on the responsibility of their own legal defense or argument, handling all aspects of their case without professional legal assistance. This can be seen in various situations, such as in court cases where individuals choose to navigate the legal system independently. Understanding this term is crucial for recognizing the different roles that participants in a legal setting may assume and can impact how cases are presented and managed.