Pro Se Litigation Guidance

Summary

Pro se litigants must answer interrogatories truthfully unless it violates privilege. Subpoena witnesses for testimony, but written statements are complex. Consult local rules.

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I have essentially * or * questions (I'm a pro se plaintiff.) Here they are:
Hello ****, I'm here to help you navigate through your legal questions. Can you please specify what those questions are?
Hi. I am a pro-se litigant in a multiple-defendant litigation and am seeking free or VERY inexpensive answers to two questions: (*) Am I bound to answer Interrogatory questions against my interest? (E.g.: If a defendant or his/her attorney asks for "names and addresses of all people whom I know who I think has or may have information regarding claims" but I know that some of them are not only known to at least two of the defendants and maybe colluding with them, thus adversarial, must I still divulge the information?) And (*) Can I compel testimony from a once-helpful witness whom I described (but didn't identify) as helpful in my complaint but who now refuses to give me the required written statement for Discovery? And/Or, must I amend my complaint to exclude the reference to such a witness?
Hello ****,
*. You are generally required to answer Interrogatory questions truthfully, unless it violates your right against self-incrimination or attorney-client privilege.
*. While you can subpoena a witness to testify, forcing a written statement can be tricky. Amending a complaint depends on many factors.
Remember that this is general advice and not a substitute for legal advice.
Thanks... it's not much help...
I understand your concerns, ****. Here's some additional guidance:
*. You must respond to interrogatories, but if the information could harm your case, consult a lawyer about invoking privilege or objections.

*. You can subpoena a reluctant witness for deposition or trial, but cannot force a written statement.
*. Whether to amend a complaint is complex and depends on your case's specifics. Consider consulting a lawyer.
In answer #* in my county, the Rules state that I must get a written statement before I can name a witness... which seems to create a sort of circular reasoning situation.
I understand your confusion, ****. The requirement for a written statement might be to ensure the witness's testimony is consistent. However, each jurisdiction may have different rules. It's advisable to consult with a local attorney or check with your local court clerk for further clarification.