Clerk’ Offices across the state of Florida, including Collier County, offer self-help programs for individuals that choose to represent themselves in court, regardless of their financial situation.
In Collier County’s self-help center, computers are available for individuals to fill out the necessary forms for civil and family court matters. Many legal forms for filing appeals, guardianship, probate, landlord/tenant disputes, small claims, and name change are available in the self-help centers. Additionally, family law cases including adoption, alimony, child custody, visitation, child support, domestic violence, dissolution of marriage/divorce, parenting plans, and paternity can be easily accessed.
A Deputy Clerk is available to assist individuals in the self-help center, which is located on the first floor of the Collier County Courthouse. While the on-duty Deputy Clerk can provide direction to the correct forms, they can’t provide legal advice. They will explain necessary procedures and requirements, as well as review submitted forms to make sure that the petitioner has completed the forms properly. Residents that can’t afford an attorney can request assistance through the non-profit organization, Legal Aid Service of Collier County.
The forms provided by the self-help centers are in the latest ready-to-use format, with all amendments incorporated. Instructional materials with detailed instructions are also included to help guide residents in filing these forms. The forms are automated for faster transactions and must be accomplished on the provided computers. Once complete, residents can print these forms and have them signed and filed with the Clerk of Court.
Collier County residents are free to visit the self-help center located on the first Floor of the County Courthouse Annex (3315 Tamiami Trail East Naples, Florida 34112). It is open from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM every Monday-Friday and is staffed by a Deputy Clerk that will be available for assistance. Residents are also encouraged to explore e-services online at CollierClerk.com as well as through its eight satellite offices located throughout the county.