Understanding the Role of a Family Law Facilitator
In Merced County, a family law facilitator is a court employee who assists individuals with civil family law issues. The family law facilitator is available to help individuals who are either representing themselves in family law court or who have attorneys, but may still need assistance. A family law facilitator can help with issues such as child support, spousal support, custody, visitation, and other family law matters. For those who are representing themselves in court, the family law facilitator is available to explain the process and the procedures involved in a family law court case.
The family law facilitator also provides assistance to both parties in attempting to resolve their family law disputes. The family law facilitator can provide information about available resources that could assist the parties with their case. For example, the family law facilitator can provide information about free and low-cost legal services available in Merced County. The family law facilitator can also provide legal advice, but it is important to note that the family law facilitator cannot represent either party in the court case nor can they make recommendations about the case.
What to Expect When Visiting the Family Law Facilitator
The family law facilitator is available to answer questions and provide assistance at the Merced County Superior Court. Generally, they are located in the Family Law Office or the Self-Help Center. When visiting the family law facilitator, individuals should be prepared to discuss the specific issues they’re having with their case. It’s important to bring all relevant documents, such as court orders, financial documents, and any other documents related to the case.
The family law facilitator is available on a walk-in basis, but it is recommended that individuals contact the court in advance to find out about available appointment times. Appointments are usually available for the same day, but individuals should be aware that the family law facilitator may not be available if court proceedings or other matters take precedence.
What the Family Law Facilitator Can Help With
The family law facilitator can provide assistance with a variety of civil family law issues. This includes issues such as child support, spousal support, custody and visitation, paternity, domestic violence, and other family law matters. The family law facilitator can provide assistance with filling out required forms, explaining the process and procedures involved in a family law court case, providing information about available resources, and providing limited legal advice.
The family law facilitator can also provide assistance with understanding the court’s orders, how to file a motion, how to respond to a motion, and how to serve documents upon the other party. The family law facilitator is also available to help with creating settlement agreements, scheduling settlement conferences, and providing assistance with mediation or arbitration.
Limitations of the Family Law Facilitator
The family law facilitator is not a lawyer and cannot provide legal advice or represent either party in the court case. The family law facilitator cannot make recommendations about the case or advise the parties on what to do. The family law facilitator can only provide information about available resources and explain the process and procedures involved in the family law court case.
Additionally, the family law facilitator cannot provide assistance with matters that involve criminal law. For example, the family law facilitator cannot provide assistance with matters related to restraining orders, criminal protective orders, or criminal contempt orders. For assistance with criminal matters, individuals should seek the advice of an attorney.
Conclusion
The family law facilitator in Merced County is a court employee who assists individuals with civil family law issues. They can provide assistance with understanding the process and procedures involved in a family law court case, provide information about available resources, and provide limited legal advice. However, it is important to note that the family law facilitator cannot represent either party in the court case nor can they make recommendations about the case. For assistance with criminal matters, individuals should seek the advice of an attorney.
