So. You’ve admitted to yourself that you are ready for a separation from your spouse. As you finish up with the consultation, you also admit to yourself that you haven’t a clue how you’ll pay for your potential attorney. If you still want representation from an attorney and struggle with planning for the cost, learn more from our article on how to prepare for and fund your divorce. However, if your financial situation does not allow room to hire a law firm at all, representing yourself may be the only way to go. Fortunately, there is an option. You can always represent yourself in your divorce using the aid of a Family Law Facilitator.
What is a Family Law Facilitator?
The Family Law Facilitator program is a court-funded legal assistance provider operated by attorneys, paralegals, and law clerks. The program is for people representing themselves in family law cases to have free access to legal help. There are physical locations individuals can visit to have in-person assistance with documents and paperwork, as well as virtual meeting options for litigants who would rather have more flexibility. It should be reiterated that using the Family Law Facilitator means self-representation. You will not have an attorney to take care of everything involved in a case, including drafting paperwork and court appearances.
When hiring a law firm, you can rely on your attorney to do the heavy lifting. Your attorney will worry about what to file and serve, when, where, and with whom. Know that when you represent yourself, you are held to the same standard that an attorney is held to. You are expected to follow all court rules and procedures.
What are the services provided?
The Family Law Facilitator offers a wide range of sources, forms, documents, courses, and opportunities to consult professionals. The office has articles, FAQs, and an extensive library of forms to get started. Litigants have access to workshops, as well as one-on-one video chats with legal professionals. There you can ask questions face-to-face and get help with necessary procedures and duties that are expected.
When contemplating representing yourself in your divorce, educating yourself on your options is more important. If you want to hire an attorney to represent you, we at Burgos, Santoyo, and Smith are happy to set up a consultation to potentially represent you in your divorce.