Appalachian Family Law Information Center

AFLIC recommends that individuals seek the advice and representation of a private attorney who will not only be familiar with the law, but will also be familiar with the procedures of the Court. If you cannot hire an attorney due to limited income and will be representing yourself, AFLIC may provide you with basic information on court procedure. AFLIC is available only if you prove you have limited income and do not have any attorney. To prove you have limited income, you must pick up and complete an application from AFLIC that contains questions about your finances and answer all questions truthfully. Should you qualify financially for services, the services of AFLIC are provided free-of-charge. AFLIC may provide information to all parties who qualify financially, even if the opposing party has already received information from AFLIC. DISCLAIMER: The services you receive at AFLIC may or may not be useful in understanding the different aspects of appearing in Court, including the paperwork and/or forms necessary to proceed in Court. AFLIC does NOT provide legal advice, only legal information. AFLIC staff are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. No one at AFLIC can represent you in Court. You will represent yourself. All parties should be familiar with the Standing Order of the Appalachian Judicial Circuit prior to filing any action in the Superior Courts of Fannin, Gilmer and Pickens Counties.

Q: What if the forms and packets provided are not enough to help us resolve our problems? A: AFLIC is designed to be of assistance when parties are basically in agreement about what actions they want to take on their family law matters. When the parties cannot agree, the assistance of private attorneys may be needed to resolve issues. ​ Q: How do I represent myself in Court? A: Court is a traditional and polite place. You should address adults by last name and appropriate titles (Judge, or Your Honor, Counselor, Attorney, Mr. or Ms.). Dress appropriately. Be respectful to everyone and be on time. Q: Does AFLIC stand with me in the Courtroom? A: No, you will be representing yourself in Court. AFLIC will assist the Court with forms that are required, but you are responsible for preparing and presenting your case.