Family Court Self Help Program

In 1994, in response to the need to assist self-represented litigants in Family Court, the Supreme Court of Florida mandated the development of recommendations and a coordinated response to assist families and children involved in litigation. The Eleventh Judicial Circuit and the Dade County Bar Association collaborated to establish the Self-Help Program, which assists Self-Represented Litigants in Family Court by providing the proper forms and guidelines to streamline their case, understand the court process, and eliminate delays.

In accordance with limits set by the Supreme Court of Florida, the Self-Help Program can assist Self-Represented Litigants for nominal fees for various services, including:

• Initial intake with a front counter specialist
• Online chat services that provide the SRL with information on the type of forms packet needed
• Orientation and familiarization of the forms included in the packets so that the SRLs can complete the forms at their convenience
• Workshops for SRLs needing additional assistance with the completion of the forms
• Document review service to ensure that forms are inspected for completeness prior to filing with the Clerk of Courts
• Concise instructions on court procedures and what next steps can be expected during this process
• Connect parties to court partners who can assist with the next stages of the case

Additionally, indigent Self-Represented Litigants who can provide proof of indigency may receive reduced-cost services or, in certain cases, have the costs completely waived. Please note that this Self-Help waiver is not related to any other Court or Clerk of Court fees.

The Self-Help Program's primary role is to provide procedural assistance to Self-Represented Litigants, enabling them to present their case to the court and obtain a final hearing. The Self-Help Program does not provide legal advice nor guarantee the outcome of a Self-Represented Litigants case in court.