Can I represent myself in a circuit court case?

An attorney is professionally obligated to do what is best for you, the client.  For that reason, it is always advisable to use an attorney. Sometimes, especially if you cannot afford to hire an attorney, you might be eligible for free or reduced-cost legal services.  Courts offer some self-help services that will provide you with additional assistance and information.  For more information on free or reduced-cost legal services or the self help services available, go to the Peoples-Law Library webiste.  They also have a useful quiz to help you decide if you might be successful handling a case on your own.

Peoples-Law Library (self-help)
 Peoples-Law Library (free of reduced cost)
In Calvert County, assistance with a family law matter is available on the second floor of the Courthouse every Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30 pm.  Assistance is offered on a first come, first served basis.  Sign-up begins at 8:30 am.  Other assistance is available through the Family Law Hotline: operated every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00-4:30 @ 800-845-8550; Pro Se Hotline (Women's Law Center) can assist with completing forms.  Hours are Tuesday 9:00-12:30, Wednesday 9:00-12:30 and 4:00-7:00 pm, Thursday 9:00-4:00, and Friday 9:00-12:30 at 800-818-9888.  Click here for more information.

Disclaimer

The office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court is committed to serving the citizens of Maryland.  Every effort is made to provide accurate information and assistance regarding matters that are important to you.  Please be advised, however, that we are prohibited by law from rendering legal advice.

Responses to these frequently asked questions should not be considered legal advice and may not be applicable to your individual circumstances. Our intent is only to offer you procedural information, refererences to potential applicable Rules or Statutes, and to possibly provide you with knowledge regarding additional sources where legal information can be found.

The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only.  The information is provided by the Calvert County Clerk's Office and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose.  Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of the Calvert County Clerk's Office.  We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites.  The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.  FOR LEGAL ADVICE, YOU MUST CONSULT AN ATTORNEY.

Notice:  These questions represent some of those most frequently asked to the Calvert County Circuit Court Clerk's Office.  For questions regarding matters in other circuit courts, please contact that court directly.  For District Court or Traffic matters, please see the information located on the Judiciary website:  www.mdcourts.gov - click on District Court or contact your local District Court.

For legal advice, you  must consult an attorney.