Author: M. Samples
Are you interested in filling out and filing your own court paperwork? Here is some information to help!
The Oregon Judicial Branch’s website has many DIY court forms for the public to access online. There are forms pertaining to many different areas of law. Below is a list of some of the popular DIY court forms for family law purposes that are available on the site:
- Dissolution of Marriage (divorce)
- Enforcement
- Modification
- Custody, Parenting Time, and Child Support (for unmarried parents)
- Family Abuse Prevention (FAPA) Restraining Orders
The forms can be downloaded as PDF’s or filled out using the iForm option (which functions as a fill-in- the-blank guide). Please note that some of these forms are specific to Clackamas County, while others work statewide. If you need help finding specific forms for your county, don’t be afraid to contact your local courthouse.
These online DIY forms can be a great option for individuals who want to save money in legal fees by doing some of their own leg work. While these DIY court forms work well in some cases, they may not work for everyone. The forms are best used in situations where the legal issue is uncomplicated and (fairly) uncontentious. It is always a good idea to consult with an attorney to discuss your case and help determine whether the DIY forms are the best option for you. The judicial system does its best to make legal processes accessible, but things can get confusing nonetheless. If you have questions or need help while filling out these forms, you should definitely seek legal advice. Many law firms are willing to help in whatever capacity you may need- even if that means giving you the knowledge to continue the process on your own!
Clackamas County Self-Help Resources and DIY Court Forms
https://www.courts.oregon.gov/courts/clackamas/help/Pages/forms.aspx