Self-represented/pro se litigants (parties who choose to access the court on their own behalf without an attorney), may utilize the services of the Client Services Center (CSC) for assistance with Court processes. The CSC is located on the first floor of the:
Family Law Center
440 Ross Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Litigants may call 412.350.5600 and ask to speak to a Client Service Center Domestic Relations Officer or appear in person at the Family Law Center – Information Desk. To be assisted in person, litigants must appear Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. If a litigant appears after 12:00 p.m., personnel at the Information Desk will ensure they are assisted via phone or email within 24 hours.
The Domestic Relations Officer (DRO) will provide litigants with procedural information, which will allow the litigant to determine how best to move forward with his/her case. The DRO will not provide legal advice or instruct a party as to what he/she should do. Self-represented (pro se) litigants may utilize the services of the CSC regardless of income.
Legal Advice Clinic
The Legal Advice Clinic is staffed by volunteer attorneys from the Allegheny County Bar Association and law students from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and Duquesne University School of Law. The Legal Advice Clinic offers legal counseling and advice to parties who meet financial eligibility guidelines. Court employees are not permitted to provide legal advice. Litigants seeking assistance through the Client Services Center and Legal Advice Clinic MUST be prepared to provide the following information when they appear:
- Proof of household income (pay stub, bank statement, benefits statement (including Department of Public Welfare benefits, unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation benefits, and Social Security benefits), tax returns, W-2 statements, or any other document showing income,
- All pertinent court documents or court orders regarding their case,
- The address of the opposing party or parties, and
- Information regarding involvement, if any, with the Allegheny County Office of Children, Youth and Families (OCYF).
Pro Se Motions
Self-represented litigants who wish to submit a motion to the Court must do so through the Pro Se Department located in the Family Law Center, 440 Ross Street, Pittsburgh, PA. The Pro Se Department provides assistance to litigants in preparing and submitting motions to the Court. Litigants are encouraged to communicate with the Pro Se Department by email, prior to submitting a motion, to answer any questions and obtain forms for motions specific to their situation. The Pro Se Department accepts motions in person Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.