"In Pro Per" means that you are acting as your own attorney. You are
not required to hire an attorney but before taking any legal action it is highly
advisable to consult with a lawyer who can inform you about important legal rights.
An experienced attorney
may be able to quickly assess your situation and highlight the best course of
action to assert or protect your interests. Failure to consult with an attorney
may result in unnecessary delays or costly measures in the future to remedy
errors.
Typical family law matters
may include child custody, child visitation, child support, spousal support,
use of the residence, payment of debts, division of assets and debts, tax consequences,
division of pension and retirement benefits, attorney's fees, and other issues.
Attorneys are listed in
the telephone book. For a small fee, you can schedule a short consultation with
a private attorney by calling the Lawyer Referral Service at (650) 369-4149.
Parties who prefer to mediate
their disputes can call the Family Law Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Program at (650) 599-1238 for an initial 90-minute mediation session for $50.00
per party.
If you cannot afford an
attorney, or choose to represent yourself, you should know that in San Mateo
County:
you are responsible for
completing all necessary forms, filing the forms with the court and presenting
your case before the Judge
local rules permit legal
forms to be neatly handwritten in blue or black ink
all persons in pro per
must have his or her papers reviewed by the Family Law Facilitator before
filing or presenting papers to the Judge
in presenting your case
you are expected to comply with the same legal procedures, evidence rules,
and standards of practice as attorneys
All documents submitted
to the court clerk for filing must also be provided to the other party; this
is called "service of process". You are responsible for having someone
over the age of 18 and not a party to the case, serve a copy of all documents
on the other party.
Self-help books are available
at your local library, law library, or book store. You may also obtain further
information on completing your paperwork, service and filing through the Family
Law Facilitator's office. Since it is difficult to answer questions
about legal forms over the telephone, in most cases it is necessary for you
to present all of your paperwork to the Family Law Facilitator in person . Always
bring with you copies of your prior court orders and related documentation to
support your case.
