Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“I am getting ready to file a civil lawsuit against another person. I have been trying to find the proper forms- I have tried the court house- legal forms on line etc. Evidently the forms and wording is very important and I want to do everything correctly-any help out there. I live in Portland Oregon.”Despite the fact that it is possible to represent yourself in court, it is rarely advisable, and your question highlights one of the reasons why. Not only are the “forms and wording very important” – but they are vital to the successful prosecution of a lawsuit. It’s no exaggeration to say that the very act of accidentally or erroneously omitting a word or phrase, or failing to check – or accidentally checking – the wrong checkbox – can cause a case to be continued or dismissed – or, far worse – for the Court to have to find for the other side (certainly not something you want to have happen on a technicality).
Question: At very least, you should consult with an attorney familiar with the issues and area of practice related to your case. Ideally you will find a way to retain a lawyer to assist you – as the quickest way to lose a case is, unfortunately, to represent yourself – however if that is simply not possible, at least try to find a paralegal or legal forms service that can help you to properly fill out and file the forms.
