Self-Help

The Self-Help Center can answer questions about your case, help you figure out which forms you need and how to fill them out, and explain different legal options. Our staff cannot give legal advice (staff can tell you how to do something but cannot tell you what choice you should make). Staff may refer you to a private attorney or another resource depending on your situation. 

• Answer your questions by phone or email
• Provide help completing forms by appointment, or checking completed forms on a walk in basis
• Direct you to step by step instructions online

The Self Help Center assists with many case types. Click the following link to see if your case qualifies.

Can the Self Help Center assist you with your case type?

Many Court Forms are available online. It is possible to access, complete and file the form online without having to come to the courthouse.

Looking for Court Forms?

Please sign up for the waitlist on tablets available at all Self-Help Locations.

Brief information and some services are being offered in person at all three Self-Help Center locations. Self-Help Center assistance is being provided primarily by remote services.

For assistance, please email your name, telephone number, and court case number (if you have one) to selfhelpcenter@monterey.courts.ca.gov, or call 647-5800, x3005. It may take a few days for Self Help Staff to get back to you, so we ask for your patience.

Registrese para la lista de espera electronicamente frente a la sala de reuniones del jurado. 

Se ofrece información breve y algunos servicios en persona en la Corte Superior de Monterey localizada en 1200 Aguajito Road, Monterey CA. La asistencia del centro de autoayuda se proporciona principalmente a traves de servicios remotos.

Si necesita ayuda, envíe su nombre, número de teléfono y número de caso judicial (si tiene uno) a selfhelpcenter@monterey.courts.ca.gov o llame al (831) 647-5800, x3005. Es posible que el personal de autoayuda se tarde algunos días en comunicarse con usted, por lo cual le pedimos nos tenga paciencia.

Legal Advice

Information is available at the State Court Self-Help Site. You can obtain a referral to a lawyer or legal aid group from the local bar association. The Self-Help Center can assist you with identifying the forms you need to file, review your completed forms for accuracy, and answer questions about the legal process.

Note About Cases Involving Children

Self-Help Center Staff can only assist with new cases involving children (parentage, divorce, custody, visitation or support) if you have a copy of the child’s (or children’s) birth certificates.  The names of all the parties and the children must match the birth record in order to end up with an enforceable and useful order or judgment from the Court.   

Birth Certificates for children born in Monterey County can be found here: Monterey County Recorder's Office

File Online

Go to File @ Home to get started on the following types of filing:

• Dissolution of Marriage/Domestic Partnership, or Legal Separation

• Petition to Establish Parentage, or Custody and Support

• Request for Order (Family Law)

• Income and Expense Declaration

• Restraining Orders

• Petition for Appointment of Guardianship

• Requesting a Limited Conservatorship

• Small Claims

• Eviction/Unlawful Detainer

• Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information

• Adult Name Change