Legal Self-Help

Rock Island County Circuit Court has established a new, free Rock Island County Legal Self-Help Center. This free, internet-based legal self-help center will provide information about your legal problem. If you do not have a computer connected to the internet, the Rock Island County Legal Self-Help Center is located in the Rock Island County Courthouse in Rock Island. Our Circuit Clerk staff will show you how to use the legal self-help center to find the information you need. Our staff cannot tell you what information to put in any court documents, nor can they provide you with any advice about your legal problem. The legal self-help center provides only information. If you need legal advice, you need to consult an attorney or decide on your own what you should do.

You can also access the legal self-help center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, online or you may visit any local library that offers internet access to the public.

If you can't find a lawyer to help you in court, here are some options for you:

• If you do not make much money, you might be eligible for legal aid. Prairie State Legal Services has a toll-free telephone advice line. This service has specific hours. If you qualify, you will be able to speak to a lawyer about your legal problem. You can refer to Prairie State's website for contact information and hours.
• If you are a victim of domestic violence, you are encouraged to contact Family Resources' Domestic Violence Services Program's legal advocates at 309-558-3298. They will be able to assist you with matters pertaining to an order of protection, safety planning, and provide information about services available to you. If you need immediate assistance, please contact the crisis line at 309-797-1777. Advocates on the crisis line will answer your questions and help with services such as counseling, shelter, and advocacy concerning your domestic violence issues. Visit the Family Resources' Domestic Violence Services' website. All services are free and confidential.
• If you have some money to pay a lawyer, you might want to contact the Illinois State Bar's Lawyer Finder service. This service gives you the name of a local lawyer with whom you can discuss your legal problem for a very low fee. After the initial consultation, you can decide whether or not to hire the lawyer.

Having a lawyer in court can make a real difference. If you cannot find an attorney to represent you and you need to go to court alone, one of these options might help. Take time to prepare for your court hearing. Preparation can make a big difference in the outcome.

Disclaimer: Circuit Court Clerk staff are prohibited from providing legal advice.