Visiting our Self-Help Center
Get the most out of your time with a Self-Help Assister by knowing what to expect and being prepared.
Prepare for your visit
Come in person
Your case is most important to you and you have the most knowledge about your case. We cannot assist you if you send a family member or friend in your place.
Arrive in time
If you want to fill out forms at the Self-Help Center, you will need to get here at least 1.5 hours before the office closes.
Space is limited
The Self-Help Center has four work stations available for the public to use. Please arrange for childcare before your visit as we do not have extra seating. All work stations are located in the same room. It is very likely that there will be other people working on court forms at one or more of the work stations while you are at the Self-Help Center.
Be prepared to wait
You may have to wait before an assister is able to speak with you. You may also need to return for multiple visits depending on your legal issue.
Please do not talk on your cell phone while waiting.
What to bring with you
Try to bring a copy of your entire court file (including all of your court case numbers) and any documents that support your legal issue.
Food and drinks are NOT allowed inside the Self-Help Center.
When you arrive
When you arrive please wait until an assister is able to speak with you.
Assistance is free
There is no cost for the services of the Self-Help Center but you may have to pay for copies and court filing fees at the clerk’s office
During your visit
Meeting with an assister
When you’re called, you’ll meet with an assister who is an attorney or who has legal expertise. The assister cannot fill out the forms for you, but can guide you on how to fill out forms.
If you need an interpreter
We do not have interpreter. If you don’t speak English well, you will need to bring your own interpreter and someone to help you fill out your court forms in English.
If we can’t help with your issue
In some cases, an legal issue may be more complicated than we can address at the Self-Help Center. In this case, we can give you resources to assist you in finding your own attorney or other legal resources to help you. The Self-Help Center cannot represent you or give the name of any specific attorneys.