I don’t know how many people realize this, but most states have some form of self-help websites for people who may not have an attorney.
I’ll let you in on a little secret: these websites are generally really good. I use them myself sometimes and I’m a family law lawyer.
Despite these websites being available, I suspect that many non-lawyers don’t use them. Furthermore, even if they do use the information on the self-help, legal websites, I would guess that a lot of people simply don’t understand the information displayed on them.
So, I must ask myself: why don’t people utilize these awesome websites that have been set up by states to help people who can’t afford an attorney? Is it simply because they don’t understand the information? Or, is it that people don’t know where to look? Do people with a requisite amount of education simply have enough money to hire a lawyer and, therefore, don’t worry about such sites? I don’t know that answers to these questions.
For example, Minnesota has a wonderful self-help websites for people who do not have lawyers. The family court self-help website for the First Judicial District of Minnesota is a great example. The topics on the website include:
- marriage dissolution
- child custody
- child support
- visitation
- paternity issues
- spousal maintenance
- domestic abuse
In the case of the website listed above, volunteer lawyers will talk with you about your case for free. This is a wonderful service that is provided by local attorneys who give their time away for free.
However, the website listed above is not the only resource that people can use when they can’t afford their own lawyer. Many websites around the countryprovide free court forms and pleadings that are designed to be user-friendly and easy to understand. Often, all a person has to do is print the form off, fill in the information, and follow the instructions. Pretty simple, right?
I’ll be the first to admit that the law is not easy to understand. As a lawyer, I have difficulties understanding all of the rules, regulations, and requirements. But, I don’t think people should be scared by that. Instead, I think people should do their best to take advantage of the free services that are provided to them.
I often say to myself that if people would just look for the answers, they are easily found. This is often the case when people without a lot of assets or debts desire to get a simple divorce or legal separation. Utilizing websites like those listed above are a great way to save money and avail yourself of the court system that was created for your benefit.
I don’t necessarily recommend choosing not to hire a Eagan family law lawyer if you can afford one. Often, it is going to be to your benefit in the long run. However, if you can’t afford a lawyer and you have some gumption, go to these free websites, educate yourself and act as your own lawyer. You may go far.
