Legal Services and Help with Self Representation
If you need legal assistance, but cannot afford to hire an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services.
Depending on your circumstances, free legal services may be available through Legal Aid, the Greater Dayton Volunteer Lawyers Project, the Montgomery County Public Defender's Office or through Ohio Legal Services.
People who represent themselves without an attorney are called "Pro Se" or "self-represented" litigants. You should think carefully before deciding to represent yourself because the process is very detailed and can be confusing.
If you choose to represent yourself, you will be bound to the same rules and requirements as a licensed attorney. You must also follow the Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure. The Rules are contained within the Ohio Revised Code.
For more information about legal services or "self-represented" filings, please see the following links:
Greater Dayton Volunteer Lawyers Project
Legal Aid
Citizen Services Office at MC Juvenile Court
