procedure FOR SELF REPRESENTATION
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procedure FOR SELF REPRESENTATION
judge order to obtain attorney i have not been able to do so.so i need to know the proper procedure for self representation
Asked on April 23, 2009 under Family Law, California
Answers:
S.B.A., Member, California and Texas Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 15 years ago | Contributor
If the Judge/Commissioner ordered you to hire an attorney, then you must have demonstrated that you cannot represent yourself. You should, seriously, consider hiring an attorney.
California has Family Law Facilitators in most Superior/Family Law courts. Check for a FLF in your area; they will help you complete the forms. There are also many excellent self-help books in CA regarding divorce - check out Nolo Press & others (they are in all major bookstores).
CA also has excellent online help, with all Judicial Council Forms, which have to be filed in a lawsuit, available for free download (google 'superior court of california' & go to the forms section).
Also check with your local Bar Association (in the phone book, under your County name) for any Family Law legal aid available in your area. If there is no legal aid available, the County Bar Assoc. can refer you to an attorney.
Many FL attorneys in CA will offer 'unbundled' services; they will complete the paperwork for you, or explain the process and offer advice without becoming the 'attorney of record'. Some may only appear in court for you - you have to check around and see if this is available in your area.
Many FL attorneys in CA offer free consultations.
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