Self-Represented Litigant Project
Two licensed, full-time attorneys staff the Project. The Project is designed to assist individuals with SIMPLE family law matters. Individuals with complex cases and/or high levels of conflict should retain an attorney for assistance.
There is no charge for the service. All persons who make use of the Project will be asked to fill out a short demographic survey.
The Project is open from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.
Access to the Project is walk-in on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up to talk with the attorneys begins at 8:30 a.m. People seeking assistance can sign up at the Sheriff’s station near the Family courtrooms on the first floor of the Cummings Courthouse. PLEASE NOTE: Parties who wish to speak to the attorneys must sign up, even to ask “simple” questions.
The attorneys do not provide assistance by telephone or email.
Due to limitations on space, only the person seeking assistance is allowed in the waiting area of the Project. Family members, friends, etc., will be directed to a waiting room.
The attorneys are available to offer assistance with selecting appropriate forms, filling out forms, and limited procedural advice. PLEASE NOTE: The attorneys who staff the Self-Represented Litigant Project:
- DO NOT tell parties how to conduct their cases;
- DO NOT represent parties;
- DO NOT file paperwork for parties;
- DO NOT go to court with parties or help them with their cases;
- DO NOT call, write letters, or otherwise communicate with opposing parties, attorneys, or Judges;
- DO NOT help persons who already have an attorney.
Interpreter services are available with advance notice. If you wish to see the attorneys on a walk-in basis, it is helpful to bring a family member or friend with you to interpret. If you want to have a formal interpreter available, please call (410) 396-3648 and indicate that you need an interpreter. An appointment will be set for you to see the attorneys, and an interpreter will be ordered.
