Legal Resource Center

Volunteer Opportunity - Legal Resource Center

The Genesee County Legal Resource Center was established to address the rising need for accessible legal assistance in the community. In the 7th Judicial Circuit Court, civil cases in family law, housing disputes, and consumer issues have significantly increased, with over 4,500 domestic relations and protection order filings each year in 2021 and 2022. Around 70% of these cases involved individuals without legal counsel, highlighting the demand for accessible resources for pro se litigants.

A 2022 Legal Services Corporation report found that 74% of low-income households faced civil legal issues, yet 92% received little or no legal assistance. Local surveys reveal a growing demand for legal support, particularly among domestic violence survivors, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, reinforcing the need for a centralized resource center.  A 2018 survey by the Genesee County Bar Association showed that 62% of respondents struggled to access affordable legal services, further emphasizing the need for more resources.

In response, the 7th Judicial Circuit Court established a Self-Help Center within the courthouse to provide resources for individuals handling civil legal matters without attorneys.   In 2022, the Legal Resource Center (LRC) became an official Michigan Legal Help (MLH) Self-Help Center, offering public access to multiple workstations and trained Navigators. The LRC provides legal information, guidance on completing legal forms, and assistance with court filing procedures—all at no cost to the public.  Through these efforts, the LRC continues to bridge the gap in legal assistance, empowering residents with the tools to navigate their legal challenges.

The LRC provides essential legal resources and support to individuals navigating the legal system without an attorney. The center offers several computer workstations equipped with Michigan Legal Help, a comprehensive self-help resource library with information, articles, and do-it-yourself legal forms for various legal matters, including divorce, custody, landlord/tenant disputes, debt collection, and more. Visitors can also access Zoom hearings with free headset use and find links to important legal resources, such as Genesee County Friend of the Court and Probate Court forms, instructional videos, and State of Michigan court forms. Additionally, the LRC provides assistance with form preparation, including help with SCAO forms and probate court form packets. To further support legal research, the center offers access to Westlaw, various law books, and links to community agencies.

The temporary location for the LRC is on the first floor or the courthouse, in room 103.  The permanent location for the center will be located on the second floor of the courthouse, in room 204. 

The permanent location is under construction, with an opening projected in early summer of 2025.  Click this link for additional information on the LRC and construction project.

Help for Self-Represented Litigants


Legal Terms and Definitions


Westlaw

  • An online legal research service and proprietary database for lawyers and legal professionals available in over 60 countries.  This resource is only accessible in-person.

Federal Courts


State Courts


Associations and Agencies