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Montgomery County Family Law Self-Help Center
The Family Law Self-Help Center is a FREE clinic, staffed by attorneys, that provides either general legal information or limited legal advice in family law disputes involving divorce, custody, visitation, guardianship, and child support. The Self-Help Center can help determine which family law forms are the most appropriate, help with the completion of the forms, provide information on how to navigate the system, and explain the law in general.
The doors to the Family Law Self-Help Center open Monday through Friday at 8:00am for sign-in. Sign-ins continue throughout the day until capacity is reached. Family law lawyers begin seeing people at 8:30am. It is recommended that you come early in the day if you want to see a family law lawyer. Additionally, you may call 240-777-9145 and a family law lawyer will call you back within 24 hours for a consultation or to schedule an appointment if appropriate.
Cases we can help you with
The Family Law Self-Help Center assists individuals who want to represent themselves in SIMPLE family matters only.
Assistance we cannot provide
If the family law matter is too complex, or otherwise inappropriate for the Center (e.g., domestic violence, exceptions, emergency petitions, contested matters, or complex property or support issues), a staff attorney will attempt to refer the client to an appropriate agency or program. Individuals with contested or complex cases should retain their own attorneys.
The Family Law Self Help Center is NOT a Substitute for an Attorney
For example, Center attorneys:
- DO NOT represent clients.
- DO NOT file paperwork for clients.
- DO NOT go to court with clients or help them try their cases.
- DO NOT call, write letters, or otherwise communicate with opposing parties, attorneys, or judges.
- DO NOT help individuals who already have an attorney.
- DO NOT assist with discovery.
- DO NOT draft or review separation agreements.
Self-representation is not for everyone! If you have questions about processing the forms or are unsure about whether it is wise to handle your case without a lawyer:
- Contact an attorney
- Visit the free walk-in Family Law Self-Help Center