In addition, many local bar associations sponsor free legal advice clinics. People accused of a crime who cannot afford an attorney may apply for free help from the public defender's office. The courts may also be a source of legal asistance. Each court has a family law facilitator who can provide information on child, spousal, family, and medical support at no charge. Each court also has a small claims advisor who provides free help to people involved in small claims matters.
Many courts have self-help centers with information and referrals.
A variety of helpful booklets covering such topics as child custody, small claims, writing a will, arrest, and other common legal issues are also available from local bar associations, your county law library, the State Bar of California, and the California Judges Association. The following is a partial list of organizations that provide information about the California court system. The State Bar offers helpful publications on a variety of topics, including juvenile law issues. Many local bar associations provide free booklets and services. Most counties have a local victim center that will help you apply for compensation.