Popular Low-Cost Legal Assistance Service Returns Post-Covid
Following a three-year hiatus caused by the pandemic, the Clerk’s Office can again offer access to the Low Bono Program which is designed for those involved in Family Law or Probate cases. This rejuvenated program features community-minded local attorneys who are willing to conduct in-person meetings to assist those in need at affordable rates ($50 for 30-minutes or $80 for 60-minutes).
Some citizens choose to represent themselves during part or all of legal processes (referred to as pro se litigants) but they can encounter a tough situation when realizing some help is needed. They discover that they don’t meet the financial criteria for free Pro Bono legal assistance (through Legal Aid) but may also lack the funds to pay a full-time private attorney. That’s when Low Bono Program attorneys are most helpful.
Through the new Low Bono appointment scheduling software found on this site, Clay County residents can easily book an appointment and get expert help with complicated court forms and receive guidance with court system processes. Appointments are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays during normal courthouse business hours (8am-5pm) and based on attorney availability.
Examples of Family Law cases include legal separation, divorce, child custody, injunction, adoption, and financial support filings. Last year, 2,356 Family Law cases were filed in Clay County. Probate Law involves the process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs. Last year, 592 Probate cases were filed in Clay County. These types of cases can be more smoothly resolved when the parties receive legal guidance and form reviews, both services obtained through Low Bono.
Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Tara S. Green tasked her General Counsel, Brian Byrd, with the oversight of this important program’s relaunch. He quickly identified that the need for low-cost legal assistance in Clay county is robust.
“Our Low Bono service empowers Clay County citizens to navigate the legal system with confidence, results in less errors in pleadings, and improves case efficiency for self-represented litigants,” Byrd said. This explains why the program was so popular before COVID and why residents and attorneys alike are glad it is available again.
Clerk/Comptroller Green is especially appreciative of one such attorney, Jessica Skapetis, P.A.. “Her feedback was extremely helpful as we worked to not only relaunch this program but also make it better and less stressful for citizens,” Green said.
One can easily imagine the high stress levels of parties involved in these case types.
“Family and Probate cases hit close to home. When emotions and stress run high and wallets run low, this program steps in to bridge the gap,” Byrd explained. “It can be a lifeline for stressed out citizens that Civil Department staff are happy to offer again.”
Clay County residents with questions about the Low Bono Program can find details and the user-friendly Low Bono appointment link online. You may also contact the Clerk’s Office Civil Department at (904) 269-6361 or visit that department in person (first floor of the Clay County Courthouse).
Thank you.