Low Bono Program

Through our Low Bono appointment scheduling software, linked below, citizens involved with Family Law, Probate cases, or Domestic Violence Injunctions can connect with community-minded, local, licensed attorneys who are willing to meet with and assist those in need of legal services at affordable rates.

NEW:  Our office , through this program, is now offering assistance with Domestic Violence Injunctions. This new service aims to provide much-needed support to victims of domestic violence by guiding them through the process of filing a petition. Our goal is to help you understand what information to include, what to avoid, and what may be considered unnecessary; plus, the introduction of evidence and the proper procedures to follow.

It is not uncommon for citizens who wish to represent themselves (often referred to in the court system as a pro se litigant) to find themselves in a situation where they don’t meet the financial criteria to qualify for Pro Bono legal assistance (done for free through the Legal Aide office) but they also lack the funds to pay a private attorney for representation. That’s when Low Bono Program attorneys are most helpful. Please review the information found here and then proceed with scheduling an appointment.

Media Coverage

First Coast News (12/25)

Clay Today Newspaper

Low Bono Program Rates

• 1/2 Hour Appointment = $50
• 1 Hour Appointment = $80
  • Cash payment only (no forms of electronic payment accepted at this time) – please bring exact change
  • Cash payment is made directly to attorney at beginning of each appointment
  • Two appointment limit per year (over any 12 month period)

Clerk of Court Green welcomes citizens to the Clay County Courthouse and to our Low Bono Program.

Tips for a Successful Appointment

1. Review your case and have your specific documents, issues, and questions ready for the attorney so you can make the most of your appointment.
2. Make sure to confirm the appointment by text or email when prompted to do so.
3. Arrive to the Clay County Courthouse 15 minutes early to allow time to find parking and to navigate through security; there may be appointments scheduled after your appointment window so every effort should be made to begin your appointment on time.
   
4. Please keep in mind that you’ll be passing through courthouse security, so only bring the necessary materials for your appointment (no contraband, weapons, food/drink, etc.)
5. Low Bono appointments are conducted inside a small office on the courthouse’s first floor (new wing). Just prior to reaching the Civil Department lobby, look for the door/window marked Low Bono Waiting Room.  Have a seat inside and the assigned attorney will greet you there when it is time for your appointment.
6. For appointments related to Family Law cases, please complete the Family Law Financial Affidavit – Short Form (linked here) in advance and bring a completed copy with you for review.  Financial Affidavit – Short Form

Program Features

• Attorneys with specialized expertise
  
  • Family Law cases involve matters related to legal separation, divorce, child custody, financial support, etc.
    • For more information about Family Law matters, view our Family Law page.
  • Probate Law involves the process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs
    • For more information about Probate Law matters, view our Probate Law page.
  • Domestic Violence Injunctions: Provides much-needed support to victims of domestic violence (DV) by guiding them through the process of filing a petition
    • What information to include, what unnecessary content to avoid, and the procedures related to the introduction of evidence.
• In-person appointments conducted at the Clay County Courthouse
  • Located at 825 North Orange Ave, Green Cove Springs
  • Remote (online) appointments are not available at this time
• Form and packet reviews done with attorneys in advance of filings and court appearances which provides better court process
• Our convenient online appointment scheduling system includes reminders, confirmation, and cancellation alerts by text or email.
  
• Program flier available here to share with others who may benefit from this low-cost program: Low Bono Program Flier 2024
• We greatly appreciate the local attorneys (listed/linked below) who agree to assist citizens through this low cost program:
  • Jessica Skapetis. P.A. 
  • Michelle Sweatland, P.A.
  • Maryanne Yeomans Shiels, P.A.
  • Dinkins Grange, P.A.
  • Jack Ford, P.A.

*Please Note: The Clerk of Court reserves the authority to discontinue program participation of attorneys who do not meet program requirements, miss or are late to program appointments, or for any other legal cause.*

Low Bono Program Contact Information

Citizens with questions about our Low Bono Program should contact the Clerk’s Office Civil Department at (904) 269-6361 or visit that department in person. The Civil Department is located on the first floor of the Clay County Courthouse, Room 1049.  The Clay County Courthouse is open Monday-Friday (minus holidays) from 8am-5pm. Low Bono Program attorneys cannot be contacted directly through the Clerk’s Office.

Please Note:  Our clerks strive to be as helpful as possible, however, these employees cannot provide legal advice to citizens.  This is one of the main reasons our Low Bono Program was established. We greatly appreciate the attorneys who commit their time and expertise to providing this worthwhile service to our community.

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