Where a party unequivocally asserts the right to
self-representation, the court must conduct a searching inquiry to
ensure that the waiver of the right to counsel is knowing, intelligent,
and voluntary. While there is no rigid formula to the court's inquiry, there
must be a showing that the party was aware of the dangers and
disadvantages of proceeding pro se. In conducting its inquiry, the court should ask questions about the party's age, education, occupation, and previous exposure to legal procedures.
Matter of Aleman v. Lansch, NY Slip Op -13-3 (2d Dep't February 28, 2018)
