Federal Rules
Every action filed in federal court is governed by at least one set of Federal Rules. All litigants, including unrepresented litigants, must comply with the Federal Rules. Links to the most commonly applicable Federal Rules in cases involving unrepresented litigants may be found below.
- Federal Rules of Civil Procedure
- Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure
- Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure
- Federal Rules Governing Section 2254 (Habeas Corpus) and Section 2255 Cases
- Federal Rules of Evidence
Local Rules
The District of Minnesota has also promulgated Local Rules that apply to every action filed in this District. As with the Federal Rules, all litigants in the District of Minnesota are expected to comply with the Local Rules.
Federal Law
Your action may be governed by one or more federal constitutional provisions, federal statutes, or federal regulations. Most federal statutes have been compiled in the United States Code, while most federal regulations have been compiled in the Code of Federal Regulations. Each of these sources of law is freely available online.
Other Resources
There are many other sources of law that may govern your case, including judicial opinions, state law, state regulations, and treaties. The District of Minnesota has compiled a list of Internet resources that may be helpful to you in researching the law applicable to your case.
Each county in the State of Minnesota has a law library at which you may conduct further research. The Minnesota Judicial Branch has compiled a list of these libraries. Please note, however, that the information on this list is subject to change. Confirm all information regarding location and hours with the library before seeking access.
There may be legal terms that are unfamiliar to you used during the course of your litigation. The United States Courts website maintains a Glossary of Legal Terms that you may find helpful.
Many of the Judges of this District maintain a list of Practice Pointers that apply to cases pending before that Judge. Refer to the Practice Pointers for the District Judge and Magistrate Judge presiding over your case.
Template forms are available on the District’s website for many of the most commonly filed documents, including complaints, applications to proceed in forma pauperis, and notices of appeal. The United States Courts website also maintains a list of forms.
Finally, many organizations in the State of Minnesota attempt to connect unrepresented litigants with attorneys. The websites for three of those organizations are provided below. Please note that there is no constitutional or statutory right to counsel in civil or habeas corpus proceedings.