Representing yourself at DALA

Organization:	Division of Administrative Law Appeals
Date published:	November 12, 2025

Organization:

Division of Administrative Law Appeals

Date published:

November 12, 2025

Overview

The Representing Yourself at the Division of Administrative Law Appeals (DALA) guide (October 2025) is a comprehensive resource for individuals appearing without a lawyer in cases before DALA. It explains the entire process—from filing an appeal and serving documents to participating in hearings and understanding final decisions—in clear, accessible language. The guide outlines procedural requirements, deadlines, and best practices for communication, evidence, and decorum; provides instructions for filing documents and requesting accommodations; and includes an extensive glossary of legal terms. Designed to help self-represented litigants navigate DALA proceedings confidently and effectively, it replaces and expands the earlier Pro Se Guide (February 2025).

Help Us Improve Mass.gov with your feedback

Did you find what you were looking for on this webpage?

Yes

If you have any suggestions for the website, please let us know. How can we improve the page?

Please do not include personal or contact information.

The feedback will only be used for improving the website. If you need assistance, please contact the Division of Administrative Law Appeals. Please limit your input to 500 characters.

Please remove any contact information or personal data from your feedback. You will NOT get a response.

If you need assistance, please contact the Division of Administrative Law Appeals.

Please let us know how we can improve this page.

Please remove any contact information or personal data from your feedback. You will NOT get a response.

If you need assistance, please contact the Division of Administrative Law Appeals.

Guide Representing yourself at DALA

Overview

Table of Contents

Help Us Improve Mass.gov with your feedback