Kitsap Legal Services works with volunteer attorneys who will give legal advice and limited assistance to low-income Kitsap County residents.. All legal consultations are by appointment only and potential clients must go through the eligibility process. Currently, most legal appointments are occurring by phone or Zoom. There is often a waiting period of several weeks for an appointment and we typically CANNOT provide an attorney to go with you to court. If you are facing eviction, and you meet eligibility requirements, we may be able to provide an attorney to immediately represent you.

Explains court procedures and assists with legal forms in family law cases for individuals without attorneys. Case types include divorce, child support, and parenting plans. The facilitator is not a lawyer and cannot provide legal advice. The Court Facilitator Can: - Assist both parties in a case. - Calculate child support when provided with income information for both parties. - Help schedule court hearings. - Help identify required family law forms. - Make referrals to other agencies. - Review forms for completeness. The Court Facilitator Cannot: - Represent parties in court. - Fill out forms for a party. - Tell a party what to say in court.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Assist individuals choosing to represent themselves in Court without an attorney. Aids with processing paperwork, understanding procedures and scheduling Court hearings. Facilitator can help with the following types of family law actions: - Dissolutions (Divorce). - Legal Separation. - Non Parental Custody (Third Party Custody). - Child Support Modification. - Invalidity (Annulment). - Temporary Orders. - Restraining Orders. - Contempt Motions. - Adoption of/Modification of Parenting Plans. - Parentage Actions (Paternity). The Family Court Facilitator can: - Explain Court protocol. - Assist in identifying and selecting forms for family law cases only. - Assist in scheduling hearings. - Check paperwork for completeness prior to court. - Arrange for interpreter or other special services for court appearances. - Refer to other agencies for special needs or legal advice. The Family Court Facilitator can NOT: - Meet with anyone represented by an attorney - Give legal advice. - Represent party in court. - Complete the forms for any party. - Tell any party what to say. - Provide assistance in any other case types. - Verify the accuracy of information provided. - Answer questions about the meaning or effect of forms or terms thereof. - Establish an attorney-client relationship or provide legal representation.

Offers guidance on legal procedures and essential forms and schedules court hearings. Helps Yakima residents with family law matters such as - Contempt - Custody Modification - Divorce - Legal Separation - Minor Guardianship - Paternity - Support Modification The facilitator is not an attorney and cannot give legal advice

Operates legal clinics providing free 30 minute consultations with an attorney at multiple locations across King County. As of 9/2024, most clinics are telephonic, but there may be limited in-person availability in Seattle and Kent. Details will be provided to clients during intake screening. Clinic attorneys can: - Determine whether the client has a legal problem - Suggest possible options - Help answer papers, summons and requests - Provide appropriate referrals Neighborhood Legal Clinic attorneys may not have expertise in all areas of the law, but they will make every attempt to answer questions accurately. Attorneys CANNOT give advice on criminal legal issues or provide representation on any legal matters.

Provides assistance in obtaining child support where paternity has not been established.   See DSHS - Division of Child Support; this office provides direct assistance in most cases.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Assists individuals without attorneys in family law and Title 11 guardianship cases. Services include: reviewing completed or partial paperwork, identifying and helping locate relevant state or local forms, explaining court hearing procedures and how to respond to court filings, and calculating child support. Cannot provide legal advice, court representation, or fill out forms.

Provides free civil legal services for youth and young adults between ages 12-24 who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

Provides Legal information on the following topics: Divorce, Parenting Plan Modification, Paternity, Third-Party Custody and Protection Orders. Also provides services for Land Lord/Tennant Issues, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Bankruptcy, and Will preparation

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

The Family Support division represents the State of Washington, and provides the following legal services: Judicial establishment of paternity and child support including requests from other county and states and Tribes; Enforcement of support orders when parents fail to pay court-ordered child support through the contempt process; Prosecution of interstate cases for paternity and child support orders on the same basis as in-state cases; Modification of existing child support orders; Representation of state interest in private dissolution, parentage, and nonparental custody actions when tax dollars have been expended to support a child; Legal representation of the Division of Child Support, a division of the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), in lawsuits challenging the agency’s collection actions against parents owing a duty of support; The Family Support Division does not represent parents or other individuals in child support cases. For a case to be initiated by the prosecutor's office, it must be referred by the Division of Child Support (DCS).

Provides assistance in obtaining child support where paternity has not been established.   See DSHS - Division of Child Support; this office provides direct assistance in most cases.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.

Provides information on family law actions, the mandatory forms required and where to obtain them, and offers general guidance on court rules, procedures, and schedules. Reviews completed forms to ensure all the necessary sections are completed and signed, and connects individuals with community resources and informational materials related to domestic and family matters. Cannot give legal advice, fill out paperwork, or instruct participants on how to complete it, and cannot assist individuals whom an attorney represents. Services are neutral, referrals are not provided, and services are not confidential. The family court facilitator is not responsible for the outcome in any case.

Provides free legal assistance for low-income individuals who would otherwise be denied access to the legal system because of the inability to pay. Potential clients are screened to determine income and case eligibility. Referrals are made to local attorneys who volunteer their time. Provides legal assistance with the following: Family Law (includes family law class to anyone who is seeking help in having their family law court documents reviewed), Debtor-Creditor, Bankruptcy, Social Security/ Disability, Wills/Power of Attorneys, Guardianship, Landlord/Tenant, Child Support, Immigration, and Protection Order. * Does not assist with: Criminal matters (of any kind including traffic infractions), Termination of Parental Rights, or Adoptions.

Provide information and support in regard to criminal and/or civil legal matters. Advocates are not attorneys and cannot represent in court, however they can help navigate the legal system and provide support and accompaniment through processes such as protection orders, divorce proceedings and parenting plans.

Assists individuals without attorneys in family law cases, including pro se divorces, child support modifications, parenting plan modifications, contempt orders (visitation, child support, maintenance), and temporary orders. What Court Facilitators Can Do: - Help identify required family law forms. - Review prepared forms for completeness. - Assist with scheduling court hearings. - Explain court procedures. - Make referrals to other agencies. The facilitator is not an attorney, cannot provide legal advice, and cannot accompany clients to court.

Assists with the following areas of family law:   -  Divorce, legal separation, invalidity, annulment -  Family law motions -  Child support modifications and adjustments -  Establishing parenting plans -  Parenting plan modifications -  Non-parental custody -  Temporary orders -  Restraining orders -  Guardianships    Provides information on how to begin certain family law actions, necessary forms and where to get them, as well as court rules and procedures.   Can explain legal terminology and will review documents for completeness, once they are filled out, but cannot fill out papers or tell clients how to fill them out. Limited referrals for legal consultation for low income pro ses.   Does not provide legal advice. Cannot assist with the following issues:   -  Adoptions -  Juvenile dependency -  Eviction -  Traffic citations -  Will and probate matters -  Bankruptcy -  Name changes -  Criminal charges   Drop-in child care provided by the Children's Home Society at the Regional Justice Center for parents while they appear in court.

Helps families reach and maintain self-sufficiency by:   -  Establishing child support orders -  Enforcing child support obligations -  Modifying orders -  Payment processing through the Washington State Support Registry.    The child support enforcement process is as follows: -  The parent having custody makes application to the state; the state then contacts resources to find the non-custodial parent. The parent, if located, is contacted and payment is requested. -  If payments are not forthcoming, legal action is taken to withhold wages or other appropriate methods are used to collect support. The case may be referred to the County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action, including civil contempt or to establish paternity of child born out of wedlock. -  In accordance with welfare reform laws, DSHS will suspend or deny drivers, professional, recreational and occupational licenses for individuals owing overdue child support or failing to comply with subpoenas or warrants related to paternity or child support proceedings. -  If the state cannot locate the absent parent, then the State Parent Locator Service may send a request to the Federal Parent Locator Service which is authorized by law to obtain address information maintained by other state and federal agencies.    Also enforces medical support, modifies child support orders, and works with other states to collect support on a client's behalf. Cannot help with child custody or visitation disputes, enforcement of community property settlements, collection of attorney's fees or other non-child support related debts.