Self-Help Center
The Superior Court of Nevada County offers free help to the public. We help with a variety of basic legal issues and types of cases, including family law and small claims.
- Ask us your questions by phone or email
- Get help with court forms at a workshop
- Find step by step instructions online
Services we offer
The Self-Help Center provides legal and procedural information and assistance with court forms to self-represented litigants with cases in or who reside in Nevada County. The Self-Help Center does not represent people in court and the services provided do not result in an attorney-client relationship. We cannot assist litigants who are represented by attorneys and our services are not confidential. We assist both sides of the case equally. To get legal advice or have a confidential conversation, you must speak with a private attorney. All services of the Self-Help Center are free of charge.
SPECIAL NOTICE - CENTER and LAW LIBRARY CLOSED: The Self-Help Center / Family Law Facilitator / Small Claims Advisor / Law Library will be closed on:
- Friday, September 23, 2022 for Native American Day.
- Wednesday, October 12 ,2022 through Friday, October 14, 2022 for training.
- Friday, November 11, 2022 for Veteran's Day.
- Thursday, November 24 and Friday November 25, 2022 for Thanksgiving.
- Monday, December 26, 2022 for Christmas.
Calls and emails will be returned as staffing allows when we return.
While we are out, you can still help yourself. Useful links are on the Self-Help Tab.
Law Library
The Nevada County Law Library is the primary depository of legal reference materials for the County of Nevada, and provides open access of these resources to all members of the community.
Step-by-step instructions online
The State of California provides online information and resources for people representing themselves in a court case. Access these easy-to-read step-by-step instructions for navigating your court case from any device.
Types of Cases
We offer help with most non-criminal legal problems. We have detailed resources on these areas:
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Alternative Dispute Resolution
The Self-Help Center offers services for mediation and arbitration.
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Small Claims
The Small Claims Advisor is available through the Self-Help Center located in the Law Library.
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Family Law Facilitator
The office of the Family Law Facilitator assists self-represented parties with child support, spousal support and health insurance issues.
Top California Court FAQs
The following are links to the State of California's Self-Help Center frequently asked questions pages. Information is provided in English and Spanish.
Divorce & Separation
Custody & Parenting Time
Name Change
Small Claims
Restraining Orders
Evictions & Unlawful Detainer
Additional Resources
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SHARP Portal
The SHARP portal walks through many kinds of forms.
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Sacramento Law Library
You can do research through the Sacramento County Law Library. They post Sacramento-specific addresses and court procedures, but the general information is very helpful.
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Legal Services of Northern California
For additional help, contact the Auburn office of Legal Services of Northern California.
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Online Resources
View a collection of additional self-help resources available online.