The CDSS File-It-Yourself Legal Clinic

Carolina Dispute Settlement Services is pleased to offer the File-It-Yourself program for people who need an economical alternative to handle their serious legal issues. 

CDSS contracts with attorneys who provide limited legal advice and document preparation to those seeking divorce or who are involved in child custody and emergency matters. 

By Appointment Only on Most Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

We take appointments starting on Monday mornings at 9 a.m. for the week in which you will be coming to clinic. 
Call early for the best choice of appointment times. 

Please note: WE ASK THAT YOU DO NOT BRING CHILDREN TO YOUR APPOINTMENT (SERVICE MAY/WILL BE DENIED IF YOU DO!!!!!)

What Kind of Cases Will The Attorneys Prepare?

CDSS offers unbundled legal services for North Carolina matters. The private attorneys who staff the clinic will provide document preparation for Child Custody, Answer and Counter Claim, Motion to Show Cause, Emergency Custody, Divorce, and Motion to Modify. 
How Much Does It Cost?
What Information Should I Bring With Me?
  • The cost is determined by family income on a sliding scale
  • Bring your latest pay stub, disability check, recent
    W-2 or other proof of family income to determine your cost. (Without proof of income, you will be charged at the highest rate.)
  • The court filing fees and the service of process fees are additional and not included in the sliding scale amount 
  • Payment is due at appointment an may be made by cash or money order only. We do not accept credit/debit/bank cards
Please bring with you:
  • Print and complete the appropriate worksheet (below)
  • The full names and birth dates of each child
  • The full names and addresses of both parents and all parties
  • The child's addresses for the past five years
  • A current pay stub or other proof of income
  • Cash or money order for the appropriate amount on the sliding scale for the service you require
DO NOT BRING CHILDREN TO YOUR APPOINTMENT (SERVICE MAY BE DENIED IF YOU DO)

Worksheets

The cost is determined by family income on a sliding scale. Please bring proof of family income (pay stub, recent W-2)
​to determine your fee. Without proof of  family income, fees will be charged at the highest rate. 

Payment is due at appointment an may be made by cash or money order only.
We do not accept credit/debit/bank cards

Contact Us for an Appointment