Civil Division has developed and posted online a new handbook for those without attorneys 
 
WASHINGTON, DC – DC Superior Court’s Civil Division has just posted a 20 page handbook for civil litigants who are representing themselves.  The handbook, designed for those without legal training, explains court processes, refers litigants to relevant court rules, and explains how to best utilize court services.   
 
“Over the past several years, we have expanded the number of Resource Centers available at the courthouse to assist those parties who are representing themselves, offered Live Chat features on our website to help answer questions from those who prefer on-line questions to phone calls, and worked with the bar to increase the number of pro bono hours local attorneys are serving.  This handbook is the latest step in our efforts to assist those who cannot afford an attorney or who prefer to represent themselves in court,” said Superior Court Chief Judge Lee F. Satterfield.  “I am grateful to those who worked diligently to make this document of great practical use to DC residents.  It is easily readable for those without legal training, giving guidance about how the court system works, so that access to justice can be real for all seeking it in our courthouse, he added. 
 

The handbook can be found here:  http://www.dccourts.gov/internet/documents/Handbook-for-SelfRepresented-Parties.pdf  
 
Information about Resource Centers and other information for unrepresented parties can be found here:   http://www.dccourts.gov/internet/public/prose.jsf  
 
The Civil Division Live Chat feature can be accessed via an icon in the lower right on the following pages of the Court’s website:

• Civil Actions (for cases involving disputes over $5000)

• Landlord Tenant

• Small Claims  

• Quality Review Branch (for information on the status of a case)