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Sources of Help

Many local courts have information centers and also publish guides for self-represented litigants. These centers, and websites with electronic access to such documents, are useful resources for litigants.  For example, the First Judicial District in Philadelphia has a Brochures and Manuals section on its website with downloadable guides and brochures. Similarly, the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas has a section on its website where brochures and guides regarding Family Court proceedings may be downloaded. Visit PMC's county courthouse locator to find similar brochures and guides available from your local court.

A partnership between the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and the Pennsylvania Bar Association has resulted in the Commission on Justice Initiatives. One of the Commission's objectives is to organize and centrally locate different resource guides for self-represented (pro se) litigants.

Local Bar Associations

Many county bar associations have lawyer referral programs which try to link lawyers to people who need assistance. For example, the Philadelphia Bar Association and the Allegheny County Bar Association both have lawyer referral programs.  Check to see if your county bar association has such a program.

Legal Service Organizations

In many Pennsylvania Counties, free legal aid is available to low-income individuals. Even if you do not qualify for free legal representation, these organizations may be able to provide you with further useful information and resources.

Other Resources for Self-Represented Litigants
 
A wealth of information in the following categories: Consumer, Children and Families, Disabilities, Education, Elder Law, Employment, Health Law, Housing and Shelter, Immigrant Issues, Migrant Issues, Public Benefits, Veterans and Military
 
Information Sheets on Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce, Domestic Violence and Welfare Support, Paternity of Children When Parents are not Married, Protection from Abuse, Custody Forms and Instructions
 
Brochures about  Divorce and Custody Proceedings; Child Support Petitions; Protection from Abuse Proceedings; Pregnancy; Rape; Insurance Discrimination Against Victims of Domestic Violence; Medical Assistance; and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Rights
 
Click on the Publications button on the left for a variety of resources for victims of domestic violence. 
 
The Legal Resources section lists a variety of resources in the Philadelphia area for the self-represented litigant. 
 
 
This center provides location for self-represented litigants to obtain information and forms to represent themselves in certain types of actions, such as filing for custody or a no-fault divorce.  It does not provide assistance in filling out or filing the forms.  
 
Guide that answers some questions about self-representation. 
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