Commencement of Case Without Counsel.

(a) Individual Filers. Only an individual may file a voluntary bankruptcy petition or appear in court without being represented by a licensed attorney. All other entities, including partnerships, corporations and trusts may not, without counsel, appear in court or sign pleadings, including the petition. If a debtor that is not an individual files a petition without legal counsel, the Presiding Judge may dismiss the case without notice, either sua sponte, or on motion of a party in interest.

1 (b) Responsibility of Pro Se Individuals. Any individual proceeding on the individual’s own behalf is considered pro se. Individuals proceeding pro se must read and follow the Local Bankruptcy Rules, the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, and the Bankruptcy Code.