Consumer Information

How Can I Find and Hire the Right Lawyer?

Tips on hiring a lawyer, where to go to find one, what should be in a fee agreement, finding the best match for a client's need.s and more.

The advantages and disadvantages of staying away from court by using Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Learn about a person's rights when arrested, the definition of bail and how it is set, warrants, the difference between arraignments and preliminary hearings.

Information you should gather at the accident scene as well as reporting requirements and  what to do if someone is injured.

An explanattion of what small claims court is, money limits for taking a case to small claims court, how to file a claim and more.

Should you consider filing for bankruptcy? Do you just need more time to get your finances in order? Tips for the overextended.

The rules of divorce. Different methods of getting a divorce. Annulment versus divorce. Spousal support and more.

Just what does the law consider domestic violence? What can I do if I am a victim? What is the effect of a restraining order? And more.

If you're a renter you need to know when your landlord can come into your home, whether the owner can lock you out, owners'  rights and more.

Applying for reimbursement when you lose money because of a lawyer's dishonest conduct.

This pamphlet goes from the first step of reporting a crime to seeking restitution or following the case to its final outcome.

Jury service is a rare opportunity to make a difference. Learn how the system works and the obligations of you and your employer.

Find out what's expected of you and your lawyer and what your options are if you have a problem with the bill or representation.

In conjunction with Do I Need a Living Trust? and Do I Need Estate Planning? this pamphlet offers easy-to-understand answers to questions about passing on your assets.

In conjunction with Do I Need a Living Trust? and Do I Need a Will? this pamphlet offers easy-to-understand answers to questions about passing on your assets.

In conjunction with Do I Need a Will? and Do I Need Estate Planning? this pamphlet offers easy-to-understand answers to questions about passing on your assets.

Can you review your personnel file? What can an employer ask and not ask at a job interview? Can you use sick leave to care for a child? These and other answers in this pamphlet.

If you're looking for a lawyer, a legal referral service is one route to go. Find out what a lawyer referral service is and what it can do for you.

How Do I Become A Lawyer?

From learning what lawyers do to choosing a law school, this pamphlet guides would-be attorneys through the initial process.

The growing state and national problem of elder abuse -- from financial to physical -- is creating new laws as well as new resources.

Kids & Law : An A-to-Z Guide for Parents

(For print copies: kids@calbar.ca.gov) Addresses a host of issues of interest to parents and kids, from curfews to the Internet.

(For print copies: seniors@calbar.ca.gov) Resources for the over-60 set.

(For print copies: 18@calbar.ca.gov) Learn about the responsibilities teenagers face when they become adults.

(Available online only)  Where laws come from, the role of the different branches of government, power and function of the courts . . . and more.

Legal Health Checklist

(Available online only)  A guide to the steps to take when you buy a home, get married, have a baby, turn 18, need a lawyer, want a divorce, and more.

(Available online only) From the mission of the State Bar to the discipline system, an overview of the State Bar.