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Legal Aid and Sliding Scale Legal Services: Your Guide to Affordable Legal Help
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

Legal Aid and Sliding Scale Legal Services: Your Guide to Affordable Legal Help

When you’re navigating divorce, custody, domestic violence, or property division — or any life-changing legal situation — having professional legal guidance can be the difference between confusion and confidence. But what if hiring a lawyer at full price just isn’t possible right now? Let’s walk through one of the smartest ways to get professional help without breaking the bank: Legal Aid and Sliding Scale Legal Services.

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What to Consider if You’re Considering Filing a DIY Divorce
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

What to Consider if You’re Considering Filing a DIY Divorce

Considering a DIY divorce? Before you file on your own, learn the key factors you need to weigh, from legal risks to emotional impact. A do-it-yourself divorce can save money, but it’s not always the right fit. Discover what to consider to protect your future and make confident, informed decisions.

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Self-Filing for Divorce: How to Navigate DIY Divorce Without a Lawyer
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

Self-Filing for Divorce: How to Navigate DIY Divorce Without a Lawyer

If you’re ready to get divorced but can’t afford a lawyer—or simply want to handle the process on your own—there’s a powerful, low-cost option you might not know enough about: self-filing for divorce, also known as DIY divorce. With the right tools, resources, and guidance, many people successfully complete their divorce without legal representation—especially when both spouses agree on the major issues like custody, support, and property division. This guide walks you through what DIY divorce is, why it’s a smart choice for many, and how to get started step by step.

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Free Legal Help for Divorce: How to Access Law School Legal Clinics
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

Free Legal Help for Divorce: How to Access Law School Legal Clinics

Going through divorce or custody issues but can’t afford a lawyer? Law school legal clinics offer free family law support from supervised students. This blog post explains how to find a clinic near you, what services they provide, and how to apply. Learn how to access divorce help, court filings, and custody guidance—without the legal fees.

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How to Borrow Money from Friends or Family to Start the Divorce Process (Without Burning Bridges)
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

How to Borrow Money from Friends or Family to Start the Divorce Process (Without Burning Bridges)

Need help covering the cost of your divorce? This blog post offers practical, respectful advice on how to ask friends or family for a short-term loan—without guilt or burning bridges. Learn how to create a repayment plan, approach the conversation with confidence, and fund your fresh start with support and clarity. Perfect for anyone starting over on a budget.

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How Women’s Shelters and Nonprofits Can Be a Lifeline During Divorce or Transition
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

How Women’s Shelters and Nonprofits Can Be a Lifeline During Divorce or Transition

If you’re facing divorce, leaving an unsafe relationship, or navigating a major life change without support, nonprofit organizations and shelters can be a lifeline. This blog post shares how to find free, confidential help—like legal aid, housing, transportation, and more—through women’s shelters, local nonprofits, and national resources like 211 and The Hotline.

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Affordable Legal Help: How to Find Divorce Attorneys with Payment Plans
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

Affordable Legal Help: How to Find Divorce Attorneys with Payment Plans

Divorce can be expensive, but legal help doesn’t have to be out of reach. This blog post walks you through how to find family law attorneys who offer payment plans, flat fees, or unbundled services. Learn how to ask about payment options during consultations and where to search for budget-friendly legal support so you can move forward without financial overwhelm.

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Pro Bono Attorneys 101: How to Get Free Legal Support for Family Court
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

Pro Bono Attorneys 101: How to Get Free Legal Support for Family Court

If you’re facing divorce or a custody battle and can’t afford a lawyer, pro bono attorneys can help. This blog post explains how to find free legal support through state bar associations, legal aid clinics, and nonprofit organizations. Learn who qualifies, what to expect, and how to confidently ask for the help you deserve.

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How to File for Divorce When You Can’t Afford the Fees: Understanding Court Fee Waivers (In Forma Pauperis)
Fresh Starts Registry Fresh Starts Registry

How to File for Divorce When You Can’t Afford the Fees: Understanding Court Fee Waivers (In Forma Pauperis)

Filing for divorce—or any family court action—can be overwhelming enough without the added stress of high court filing fees. The good news? You might not have to pay them at all. If you’re struggling financially, your local courthouse may allow you to file "In Forma Pauperis"—a legal term that simply means "in the form of a pauper" or, more plainly, you can’t afford the costs and need them waived. Here’s everything you need to know, including exact scripts for calling your courthouse, and step-by-step instructions to get started.

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5 Ways to Support a Friend Experiencing an Evacuation
Genevieve Dreizen Genevieve Dreizen

5 Ways to Support a Friend Experiencing an Evacuation

Supporting a friend during an evacuation can be crucial. We outlines five practical ways to offer assistance, including providing financial aid, coordinating essential supplies, and serving as an information hub. By offering emotional support and helping with logistics, you can significantly ease their burden during this stressful event.

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