Legal Self-Help, Self-Representation, and Self-Education: Public Law Libraries

This story might describe a single California county law library, but its description fits county law libraries all over the country:

Hidden gem provides legal knowledge, The Bakersfield Californian, Nov 22, 2009

“Do you have a legal matter you would like to take care of but feel you can’t afford an attorney? Or maybe you would just like to take care of it yourself but don’t know how to get started? Well, you might be interested to know that there is help available, and it costs nothing….” (read full article)

For links to west coast county law libraries:

1) Oregon Council of County Law Libraries

2) Washington Association of County Law Libraries

3) Council of California Law Libraries

And then again, don’t assume you cannot afford an attorney. Many attorneys are willing coaches, offer limited scope legal representation, and will help you find other ways to afford invaluable legal assistance. Contact the Oregon State Bar Information and Referral Service or your local law library for additional free and low-cost lawyer referrals and services.

See, for example, the guide to Portland Metro Area Legal Services.

And, remember, paralegals are not lawyers and cannot offer you legal advice!

For more information on legal research and finding a lawyer.