Legal proceedings are inherently complicated. Lawyers are trained to navigate that complexity. Non-lawyers cannot lawfully represent you in legal proceedings. When you choose to represent yourself or find that you have to represent yourself, you will generally be held to the same standard of performance a lawyer would be. This means you are expected to follow the law, meet deadlines, use proper forms, follow procedural rules and evidence rules, among others. Preparation is essential.
In family law proceedings you may be able to enlist the assistance of a courthouse facilitator to review forms and answer general questions. The Resources below provide a link to courthouse facilitators. However, they cannot provide you legal advice. Mandatory court forms, court rules and the rules of evidence are also available on the court's website. Links to these resources are provided below.
This topic has a number of subsections. We have separately treated self-help in Administrative Hearings and Small Claims court, each of which has different procedures from the trial courts generally. We have separated self-help materials available for free from those you buy.
Various courts have different rules.
Rules on Appeal apply in the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals.
Rules of Superior Court apply in the County Superiour Courts.
Rules of Courts of Limited Jurisdiction apply in the County District Courts and in Municipal Court.
Rules of General Application links to the Rules of Evidence.
Note that the Local Rules supplement those reference above.
National Disaster Legal Aid is a collaboration between the American Bar Association, the Legal Services Corporation, the National Legal Aid and Defender Association, and Pro Bono Net. It is designed to provide legal resources and information for those that have been impacted by a disaster.
What is the role of a courthouse facilitator?
Can they help me in a family law case if I don't have an attorney?
How do I contact a courthouse facilitator?
Contact information is provided for courthouse facilitators. Facilitators help people without attorneys with their family law cases.
Where can I find definitions for terms used in court?
What does ___________ mean?
Glossary of terms used in Washington State courts.
