There’s no doubt about it: Duval County free legal advice can be confusing at first. But in Jacksonville and throughout Duval County, you can get Jacksonville free legal advice if you know where to look. With this resource guide, you’ll be able to find Jacksonville free legal advice pertaining to virtually any legal problem you might encounter. Remember: it’s not impossible to find free legal advice or to drive down the cost of representation in court. Law firms are highly competitive and will often “meet you half way” if your case is their area of expertise. Especially in Jacksonville, there are attorneys available in every specialty, to meet every need. You also have the option of representing yourself or seeking low cost legal aid from public institutions and law firms who devote resources to helping those in need. Even divorce attorneys in Duval County tend to offer a free consultation that will let you assess where your case stands with professional insight.
Self-Help Court & Legal Resources
Self-representation in court used to be rare, but no longer. Plenty of Jacksonville free legal advice is available for people who wish to take their own case to court and win. In a pro se case, the judge is obligated to ensure that you have all the normal advantages afforded to an attorney, and might appoint counsel as an advisor rather than in the usual direct role. But it’s up to you to do the legal research and find the facts you need to succeed. Luckily, in Jacksonville, residents can attend the University of Florida pro se clinic. UF is one of the most prestigious state schools in the U.S., and their resources for helping pro se cases are similarly top notch. You can also supplement your pro se efforts through numerous online databases accepted by the legal community.
- University of Florida Pro Se Clinic
- Online Resources for Duval County Circuit Court
- Duval County Clerk of Courts
- Online Law Library of Congress
Request a Free Consultation
Legal Aid Resources
Legal aid is the key to low cost representation for those who find themselves in dire financial straits or otherwise unable to find a lawyer who is right for them. Those looking for Duval County free legal advice are in luck again here, because – like the University of Florida above – Florida Coastal University provides a number of services in this area. Contacting the Florida Coastal University School of Law is a good first move for anyone seeking Duval County free legal advice. If you’re comfortable working with law students, you may have the opportunity to obtain “pro bono” (free) representation that would be more difficult to get from a private law firm, though there are several options to try.
- Jacksonville Pro Bono Legal Aid
- Jacksonville Bar Association
- Pro Bono Program Listings from the American Bar Association
- Legal Aid Information from the Florida Bar
- Free Legal Services Directory from LSC.gov, Federal Funding of Legal Services
- Florida Coastal University Pro Bono Legal Program
Domestic Violence Shelters/Resources
It’s sad to say, but in Jacksonville, domestic violence is a growing problem. Authorities in Jacksonville are aware, though, and there are more domestic violence shelters in Duval County than practically any other area in Florida. Shelters can assist in trauma recovery and provide a safe place to stay, food, and clothing. Most shelters go beyond these basic services to help victims of domestic violence stay safe and get engaged with the legal system to protect themselves. Attorney referrals are available, and naturally, Jacksonville free legal advice is provided for victims. Both the City of Jacksonville and the Clerk of the Courts make certain domestic violence resources public online.
- Hubbard House
- Quigley House
- Betty Griffin House
- Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence
- Duval County Domestic Violence Law FAQ
- City of Jacksonville Domestic Violence Information
Divorce Court Resources
There are a number of divorce attorneys in Duval County. When selecting divorce lawyers in Jacksonville, compare the facts of your case to the specialty that the law office provides. For example, some attorneys focus on uncontested divorces, while others specialize in those with especially contentious issues. If your divorce is complicated by issues such as: joint business ventures, accounts and assets, or if child custody will be an issue, you definitely need to consult divorce attorneys in Duval County to understand your options and the process involved in protecting your best interests.
- Florida Divorce FAQs
- Florida Divorce Education Class FAQs
- A Parent’s Guide for Supporting Children
General/Misc. Legal & Court Resources
When it comes to legal issues, one can lead to another. Not every attorney is qualified to manage every legal problem, and you might have to consult with several before making your ultimate choice. Other common areas of legal practice include personal injury and bankruptcy. If you can find the right attorney for your needs, you’ve taken a huge step toward winning your case, so be sure to seek Jacksonville free legal advice from several sources before coming to a conclusion. The choice of attorney is one of the most vital ones you will make so don’t accept anything less than the best.