Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Re: Need a LAWYER/LEGAL ADVICE

you have the constitutional right to represent yourself in most cases, but it is not usually the "wisest" thing to do. depending on the type of case you are a party to, you have various options for free legal assistance. if this is a criminal case, the public defender can represent you if the nature of the charges are "serious". if this is a civil case, you may want to contact the california state bar to ask for the closest pro bono legal clinic nearest you and see if you qualify. hope this helps.

Re: Need a LAWYER/LEGAL ADVICE

Realistically, you will not be able to represent yourself without some professional help. Sure, in theory there is nothing to prevent you from representing yourself, but that is like saying there is nothing preventing you from performing your own appendectomy either. I wish people could "just show up" and represent themselves, but this is not the case. You have to file complex documents by certain deadlines in order to even be eligible to have a day in court. You probably will not be able to find free legal representation. Our courts are not accessible to the general populace. Is this wrong? I believe it is. Is this justice? I do not think so. It is kind of ridiculous, but the remedy created for you is bankruptcy.

Re: Need a LAWYER/LEGAL ADVICE

You must file a written answer to the complaint within 30 days after you were served. Unless you file this written answer within thirty days your default will be taken and you will not be allowed to present any defense to the complaint.

Many courts sponsor a law clinic which will provide you some assistance in this matter.

Re: Need a LAWYER/LEGAL ADVICE

Thank you for your posted inquiry.

You didn't mention which court you were sued out of, but many county bar associations run a legal aid society where you can get free advice and free to low cost representation.

As Mr. Johnson mentioned, you do need to file a written answer within 30 days and pay a filing fee to the court.

If you have no money, bankruptcy is another option that might be attractive to you, and may discharge this and other debts you might have.

I hope that this information helps, but if you have more questions, need more information, or feel that you need legal representation, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected]. I�m happy to help in anyway that I can.