Marin County Legal Self Help Services

Contact Information

Name: Marin County Legal Self Help Services
Address: 3501 Civic Center, Room C-27, San Rafael, CA - 94903
Phone: (415) 444-7130
Fax:

Service Information

Free Legal Self Help Services Available to the Public, in English and Spanish

Office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:00am to 12:00pm; Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 3:00pm. To allow yourself enough time to receive assistance from the staff, and to complete your paperwork, please arrive at their office no later than 45 minutes prior to closing.

Legal Self Help Services (LSHS) provides free assistance to those who do not have attorneys. Due to the high volume of court users, services are provided in person only on a first-come, first-served basis. LSHS does not provide services by phone or by appointment. Services include: intake, information and referral to legal services partners, individual assistance with legal document preparation; bilingual assistance and legal reference materials for non-English speakers; assistance in conducting self-guided legal research; and coordination of volunteers and interns who provide direct customer services.

LSHS offers one-on-one assistance to self-represented litigants. LSHS utilizes a variety of web-based tools, available in multiple languages, to help litigants prepare their legal documents. There are numerous self-help resources in easy-to-understand legal publications and on the internet for Californians. LSHS maintains a library of written resources, such as Nolo Press books, that can explain complex processes in laypersons language.

Staff are also available to provide information on how to file various kinds of legal documents, serve opposing parties, and explain court procedures and legal terminology, as well as giving the public tips on how to prepare for and what to bring to court appearances.

Primary Areas of Legal Assistance are:

Child Custody & Visitation
Child Support
Small Claims
Divorce/Dissolutions
Domestic Violence
Guardianship
Harassment Restraining Orders
Landlord/Tenant
Mediation
Name Changes
Paternity

Hours:
  • Monday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Tuesday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Wednesday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Friday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Saturday closed
  • Sunday closed

Mission Statement: To ensure fair and equal access to justice and serve the public with dignity and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is legal aid?

Legal aid is free or low-cost legal advice and assistance given to those who cannot afford the services of an attorney.

2. Who is eligible for legal aid?

The eligibility requirements for legal aid vary depending on the country or state, but generally, those who have limited income and cannot afford the services of a lawyer are eligible for legal aid.

3. How can I apply for legal aid?

To apply for legal aid, you can either visit your local legal aid office or access their website to fill out an application form. You will be required to provide information on your income and assets, as well as the legal issue you need assistance with.

4. What types of legal issues are covered by legal aid?

Legal aid covers a wide range of legal issues, including family law, criminal law, employment law, housing, consumer law, and immigration law.

5. Can I choose my lawyer with legal aid?

In some cases, you may be able to choose your lawyer with legal aid. However, in most cases, the lawyer assigned to you by legal aid will depend on their availability and expertise in the area of law your case involves.

6. How much does legal aid cost?

Legal aid is either free or offered at a reduced cost, depending on your income and assets.

7. What documents do I need to provide for legal aid?

When applying for legal aid, you will need to provide proof of your income and assets, such as bank statements, tax returns, and proof of benefits.

8. Is legal aid available for international cases?

Legal aid is only available for cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the country or state offering legal aid services.

9. Can I appeal a decision made by legal aid?

If you are not satisfied with the decision made by legal aid, you may have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve filling out an appeal form or attending a hearing.

10. How can I find a legal aid office in my area?

You can find a legal aid office in your area by searching online or contacting your local bar association.