Help at your court
There are people and services available at your court to answer your questions or refer you to where you can get more help.
Court clerks
The court clerk is the official record keeper of the courthouse. The clerk files your papers, collects fees, can tell you what's been filed in your case, and can look up your court dates. They can also help you find court forms or local court rules and offer information about where you can find legal help.
Your court's website has more information about where to file court papers, look up a court case, or get a copy of a court record.
Self-Help Centers
Every superior court offers some help to people who do not have a lawyer and need legal information. The types of cases you can get help with and how much help you can get varies in different counties. Go to your court's Self-Help Center website to find out more about what services they offer. Services may be in person, by phone, or online.
Court Interpreters and Language Access Representatives
If you don’t speak or understand English very well, you may need a court interpreter to help you in court. Courts will provide you with an interpreter for free. Find out how to request an interpreter.
For more information about other language services available, each court has a language access webpage and a language access representative. Contact the court or go to their website to find out more about their language access services.
ADA Coordinators
Each court has an Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator to help persons with disabilities. You can find information about the ADA coordinator and contact information on the court's website. If you call or go to the courthouse, you can ask a court clerk to speak with your court's ADA coordinator.
If you have a disability or limitation and need an accommodation while in court, find out how to ask for an accommodation.
Children's Waiting Rooms
Some courthouses have waiting rooms for children. The Children’s Waiting Room is a free service for parents and guardians. The waiting room offers a safe place for your children while you conduct your business at the Court. Before you go, check the court's website or contact the court clerk to find out if they have a Children's Waiting Room. Also, find out their hours and their policies (like, whether there is a minimum or a maximum age requirement).