There are resources in Montana for pro se litigants, those representing themselves without the help of a lawyer. Montana is a state that tries to have justice accessible to all in need, regardless of their income level.
1. Montana Legal Services Association. This organization provides free legal services for low-income Montanans. You do have to qualify as low-income to be eligible for assistance with this program. The closest office to Flathead County is in Missoula, at 211 North Higgins Ave., Suite 401, Missoula, MT. Their hours are Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. They are also open on Saturdays from 9:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. They can be reached at: (406) 543-8343. I would recommend looking at their website: http://www.mtlsa.org/. Their website provides all the information you need on the organization and how to receive their assistance. You can also call their helpline directly at: 1 (800) 666-6899.
2. Flathead County Self-help Law Center. Flathead County is one of only two counties in Montana (the other county is Yellowstone County) that has a self-help law center. Flathead County's Self Help Law Center is located at the Flathead County Justice Center, at 920 South Main, Kalispell, MT. The law center is now located in the basement of the Justice Center, and is by appointment only. They cannot give legal advice but can provide basic information on forms, etc. You can reach them at: (406) 758-2496.
3. Limited Scope Representation. A lawyer can provide limited scope representation, meaning that they do not represent you through an entire case, but instead can assist you with the portions that you request help with, such as writing a reply brief for you. This means that you can avoid the cost of a full retainer, and only pay limited fees for what the lawyer helps you with. This is a great way to obtain affordable legal help for your Montana divorce. This also means that the lawyer may not respond to the court or other side on your behalf, or appear in court for you, depending on your agreement. Ask any family law lawyer about limited scope representation.
4. Montanalawhelp.org. A great resource for Montanans looking for basic legal information. They provide free fill-in-the-blank forms for dissolution and parenting plans. If you choose to use their forms to help lower the costs of a divorce or parenting action, I would recommend you consult with a lawyer at least once for guidance on your particular case and needs.
5. Need information? A one time consultation with a family law lawyer such as myself can lead you in the right direction on your case, and where to go from here.
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