Rule 7.May Appear by Attorney

Last verified June 28, 2026

In one sentenceRule 7 confirms that any party to a suit may take part — prosecuting or defending — either in person or through an attorney of the court.

Full Text of Rule 7

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Any party to a suit may appear and prosecute or defend his rights therein, either in person or by an attorney of the court.

End

Plain-English Summary

Rule 7 states a basic right: a party may handle a case personally or through a licensed attorney. It is the short, foundational rule behind both self-representation and appearance by counsel in Texas civil suits.

One practical caveat comes from separate Texas law rather than Rule 7 itself: while individuals may represent themselves, corporations and other entities generally must appear through a licensed attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I represent myself in a Texas civil case?

Yes. Rule 7 lets any party appear and prosecute or defend in person or through an attorney of the court. Separate Texas law generally requires corporations and other entities to appear through a licensed attorney.

What does “an attorney of the court” mean?

An attorney licensed and authorized to practice before the court. A party who does not appear in person may appear through such an attorney.

Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 7), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov). Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: may appear by attorneyappearanceself-representationpro seappear in personTRCP 7