Legal Center Makes a Case for Self-Representation

Many legal cases--divorces, wills, small claims, landlord-tenant issues and civil disputes under $20,000--often do not justify the expense or loss of control that comes with hiring an attorney.

This would explain why, according to the Los Angeles Daily Journal, more than 75% of divorces and 60% of bankruptcies are done without attorney representation. With the correct forms and a small amount of legal assistance, people can often handle the case themselves.

Legal Resource Center in Sherman Oaks was founded by Steven Strauss, a former litigator for the State Bar of California. It offers computerized legal forms, question-and-answer-driven programs, online legal research, word processing and court-filing services with instructions from on-site certified paralegals or attorneys.

The center also offers mock courtroom training sessions in conjunction with a local law school to help prepare clients to represent themselves. Those who complete routine legal matters using the computerized document preparation service are thus spared the high cost of attorneys who bill by the hour.

For example, a simple will starts at $90, a summary divorce $149 and a Chapter 7 bankruptcy $289. Filing fees, notary fees and taxes are extra.

Legal Resource Center, 14308 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (818) 380-6866.

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