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You are here: Links & Resources
This section will take you to other Web sites or other sections of this site with more information on your topic.
Click on the topic below that interests you. They are listed alphabetically.
Adult and Juvenile Crime Victims
Alternative Dispute Resolution (Mediation)
California Taxes
Civil Rights
Courts
Criminal Law
Debt Problems/Bankruptcy
Disabilities
Domestic Violence
Employment Discrimination
Families and Children (includes Divorce, Child Support, Custody, Special Education, and Emancipation)
Federal Courts
Federal Taxes
Hate Crimes
Identity Theft, Financial Crime, and Cybercrime Victims
Immigration Law
Landlord/Tenant (Rental Housing)
Legal Document Assistants
Legal Help
Legal Research
Military Issues
Restitution, Victim Compensation, and Restorative Justice
Seniors (includes Elder Law and Conservatorships)
Small Claims
Traffic
Victim Assistance
Wills, Probate, Trusts, and Estates
Workers' Compensation
Workplace Violence
If you can't find what you need here, try:
Alternative Dispute Resolution (Mediation)
California Taxes
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Civil Rights
Civil Rights and Community Complaints
This site provides a list of contacts for those who believe that they are the victims of discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or disability. They may be able to file a complaint with the appropriate local, state or federal agency. This is available on the SafeState: California Attorney General’s Crime and Violence Prevention Center Web site.
LawHelpCalifornia.org
This site includes a section on Individual and Civil Rights for victims, which has information on housing discrimination, job discrimination, prisoners’ rights, rights of accused, victims’ rights, other civil rights, and other discrimination problems. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area you live in.)
Unlawful Discrimination: Your Rights and Remedies, Civil Rights Handbook (Third Edition, August 2001)
This handbook discusses both California and federal laws that protect your civil rights. California and federal law should be examined together to get a complete picture of the law on a particular topic.
By the California Attorney General
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Courts
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Criminal Law
California State Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
Web page with information on the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's policies and regulations.
Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Centers
These centers can help crime victims apply for compensation for losses including medical, funeral, and burial expenses; loss of income or support; and job retraining.
Criminal Justice Links
This site lists links to other sites that have information about various criminal justice topics. Posted by the Florida State University School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
District Attorney
Statewide roster of district attorneys posed by the California District Attorneys Association.
Judicial Council Program-Drug Courts
This section of the California Courts Web site describes drug courts. Created by the Judicial Council of California.
Identity Theft: A Quiz for Consumers
Take this simple quiz and find out how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft. Posted by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Individual Rights and Civil Liberties
Section of LawHelpCalifornia.org Web site. Includes information on housing discrimination, job discrimination, prisoners' rights, rights of accused, victims' rights, other civil rights, and other discrimination problems.
Information on Crime Victims' Compensation
This section of the California Courts Web site explains how victims of crime can be compensated for financial, emotional, and physical losses. Created by the Judicial Council of California. You can download it in PDF format.
Introduction to Juvenile Court
Section of this Self-Help Center with basic information about juvenile court.
Juvenile Delinquency
Section of this Self-Help Center with information about cases where children are accused of breaking the law.
Public Defender's Office
If you are accused of a crime but cannot afford a lawyer, the court can appoint a public defender to represent you in court. This Web page lists links to Web sites for the Public Defender's Office throughout the state. Posted by the Orange County Public Defender.
What Should I Do If I'm a Crime Victim?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
What Should I Know About Hate Crimes?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
What Should I Know If I Am Arrested?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
Your Rights and Role in the Juvenile Court Process: Information for Victims
Pamphlet produced by the Judicial Council of California.
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Debt Problems/Bankruptcy
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Disabilities
American With Disabilities Act: ADA Home Page
This site was created by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The Americans With Disabilities Act: Civil Rights for People With Disabilities
This site has information for nonlawyers. Created by the Council for Disability Rights.
Disabilities
Section of LawHelpCalifornia.org Web site. Includes information on education rights, assistive technology, mental health issues, and rights of the disabled.
Disability Access and Rights in California
This site was created by the California Department of Rehabilitation.
Judicial Council Programs: Access and Fairness
This page gives background information on the California Judicial Council's programs to ensure access and fairness in the state court system.
People With Disabilities
The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development created this site for people with disabilities.
Persons With Disabilities: Q&A on Rule of Court 1.100. (PDF)
A list of questions and answers about disability issues and access to the justice system.
Protection and Advocacy, Inc. (PAI)
PAI helps people with physical, developmental, or psychiatric disabilities. PAI offers referrals to other resources, advocacy training, and representation in administrative and judicial proceedings, investigation of abuse and neglect, and legislative advocacy.
Publications on Housing
Publications to help people with disabilities with housing problems. Written by Protection and Advocacy, Inc.
Publications on the Americans With Disabilities Act
A list of publications with information on the Americans With Disabilities Act. Posted by Protection and Advocacy, Inc.
Go to:
Special Education for information about special education rights under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act and the California Education Code.
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Domestic Violence
General Resources
Domestic Violence and Children
Help for Children and Teens
Restraining Orders
California Department of Health Services (CDHS) (PDF)
The CDHS Family Violence Referral Directory lists resources by county, including shelters/domestic violence programs, counseling services for victims, crisis hotlines, services for defendants, and legal service providers.
Can the Law Help Protect Me From Domestic Violence?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
Domestic Violence & Employment: Guaranteed Time Off to Obtain Services (PDF)
Factsheet prepared by the Legal Aid Society of San Francisco Employment Law Center
Domestic Violence Project of Santa Clara County
This site has information about many domestic violence topics.
LawHelpCalifornia Domestic Violence
Step-by-step information on how to get a restraining order, links to domestic violence resources, domestic violence in the military, Internet security and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call 1-800-799-7233 (1-800-799-SAFE) or 1-800-787-3224 for TDD.
This hotline helps people all over the U.S. find information about shelters, legal advocacy and assistance programs, and social services programs in their area. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get help in over 100 languages.
Working Together to End the Violence .
This online tool contains information and resources for both victims and those seeking to help them. All content, including a public service announcement, is available in both English and Spanish. Use this site to identify signs of domestic violence and for access to organizations that can help.
San Francisco Law Library Family Law Research Guide
This site has a list of books about domestic violence topics.
Click here to find a book on this list.
Stalking Resource Center
The SRC's dual mission is to raise national awareness of stalking and to encourage the development and implementation of multidisciplinary responses to stalking in local communities across the country.
Supervised Visitation Network
This site may help you find supervised visitation services in your county. Click on the "Service Providers Dir." link in the left-hand column to find providers in California.
Children Exposed to Initimate Partner Violence
Article posted by National Online Resource Center on Violence Against Women .
Date Rape Information
This publication was written by the National Crime Prevention Council.
Love Doesn't Have to Hurt Teens
This Web site was created by the American Psychological Association and Partners in Program Planning in Adolescent Health (PIPPAH).
What's Happening in Court?: An Activity Book for Children Who Are Going to Court in California
This online book has activities and useful information to help children involved with the court. Created by the Judicial Council of California.
When Love Hurts: A Guide for Girls on Love, Respect and Abuse in Relationships
This Web site was developed by the Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Center (DVIRC) of Australia.
Can a Domestic Violence Restraining Order Help Me?
Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
A Criminal Protective Order was issued against me.
Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
How does a Criminal Protective Order help me?
Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
How to Enforce Your (Domestic Violence Restraining) Order
Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
Information for the Restrained Person
Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
A Petitioner's Guide to Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
This video was produced by the Judicial Council of California to help you if you are asking for a restraining order.
Click here to find this video.
A Respondent's Guide to Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
This video was produced by the Judicial Council of California to help you if you are responding to a restraining order.
Click here to find this video.
Superior Courts
Many large courts have on-site domestic violence programs that can help you ask for a restraining order. Ask the court clerk if there is a program in your county.
What Do I Do With My Gun or Firearm?
Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
Employment Discrimination
California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)
DFEH investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and hate violence. The Web site has information on California's fair employment laws, frequently asked questions, brochures, and forms.
Or call DFEH:
1-800-884-1684
TTY: 1-800-700-2320 (from California)
TTY: 1-916-227-0551 (outside California)
LawHelpCalifornia Job Discrimination
Links to information on employment discrimination based on disability, a prior criminal record, national origin, gender identity and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
This Web site has information about employment discrimination.
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Families and Children
General Resources
Adoption
Child, Spousal, and Partner Support
Custody and Visitation
Juvenile Delinquency
Juvenile Dependency
Divorce, Legal Separation, Annulment
Emancipation
Guardianship (Probate Court)
Parentage
Requesting Records
Special Education
Juvenile Justice Links
This site has links related to juvenile law topics. Posted by Florida State University.
Kids and the Law: An A--Z Guide for Parents
This question-and-answer guide can help parents learn about the rights and responsibilities of their children. Created by the State Bar of California.
Legal Services for Children
This organization takes calls from children and people calling on behalf of children. The person who answers the call cannot represent a child, but they can give the caller advice and referrals.
Legal Services for Prisoners With Children
This organization provides general advice and referrals to prisoners with family law problems.
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on family law and other legal topics.
Click here to find a book on this list.
What's Happening in Court?: An Activity Book for Children Who Are Going to Court in California
This online book has activities and useful information to help children involved with the court. It was written by the Judicial Council of California.
Adoption Information
This section has information on adoption and court forms. Created by the Judicial Council of California.
Adoption Records in California Courts
Adoption files are confidential files and not available to the public. The parties and their attorneys to the adoption may obtain copies of adoption files from the court clerk where the adoption was granted. Other requests may require a court order for release of information from the court file. Click here for a list of courts and their contact information.
For more information, go to the Department of Social Services web site .
Adoption Tax Credits
Information from the Internal Revenue Service’s Web site on adoption credit.
The California Adoption Assistance Program (AAP)
The purpose of the AAP program is to assist families in caring for special needs adopted children and to create an incentive to adopt.
California Department of Social Service On-Line Forms and Publications
Web page includes the California Department of Social Services' adoption and publications forms.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Child Welfare Information Gateway connects professionals and concerned citizens to timely, essential information and resources targeted to the safety, permanency, and well-being of children and families.
Children and Family Services Adoption
Web site created by the California Department of Social Services.
Children and Family Services Division
Services include assistance in adoptions, foster care, children’s services and child welfare.
Costs of Adopting (PDF)
Booklet prepared by the Child Welfare Information Gateway.
Costs of Adopting: A Fact Sheet for Families
Fact sheet prepared by the Child Welfare Information Gateway.
LawHelpCalifornia Adoption
Information on the Child Citizenship Act and other adoption topics.
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on family law and other legal topics. (Click on "Family Law" on the left side of the page to find adoption information.) Click here to find a book on this list.
See also Requesting Records.
Court Adoption and Permanency Resource Guide. A program of the Center for Families, Children and the Courts of the Administrative Office of the Courts.
Alameda County Question and Answer Handbook for Noncustodial Parents: A question and answer resource on paternity establishment and child support
Prepared by Center on Fathers, Families, and Public Policy.
The Basics of Child Support for Incarcerated Parents
Published by the Judicial Council of California.
Child Support Enforcement Abroad
Posted by the U.S. Department of State.
Child Support Handbook (PDF)
This online handbook has basic information about California's child support enforcement process. Created by the California Department of Child Support Services.
Child Support Publications from the California Department of Child Support Services, regarding establishing parentage and child support, incarcerated parents, wage assignments, and other child support related issues. Available in several languages.
LawHelpCalifornia Child Support
Links to information on child support for incarcerated parents, child support enforcement abroad, child support forms and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Local Child Support Agency (LCSA)
The LCSA in your county can help you get child support even if you don't get public assistance. It can help you raise or lower child support, and enforce a child support order. The LCSA can't help with child custody, visitation, or a divorce.
Click below to:
Find your county's LCSA .
Learn about child support in California (PDF) and the services at your LCSA.
Learn about the state Department of Child Support Services' Paternity Opportunity Program (POP).
If you have a problem in your child support case, the Ombudsperson and Complaint Resolution programs may be helpful to you.
Learn about:
Ombudsperson Program
Complaint Resolution and State Hearing Program
 ALERT! The local child support agency (LCSA) doesn't represent the parents or the children. The LCSA lawyers aren't your lawyers. You aren't a legal client, and the information you give the LCSA isn't confidential.
LCSA lawyers can give certain information about your case to other agencies, the other parent, or the other parent's employer or lawyer.
The law says the LCSA will make the final decision on child support enforcement, even if the custodial parent disagrees.
Parents have the right to get advice from a private lawyer or legal aid group at any time.
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A Quick Reference Guide to the California Offices of the Family Law Facilitator
Published by the Judicial Council of California.
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on family law and other legal topics.
Click here to find a book on this list.
Alameda County Question and Answer Handbook for Noncustodial Parents: A question and answer resource on paternity establishment and child support
Prepared by Center on Fathers, Families, and Public Policy.
California's Access to Visitation Grant Program - Directory of Supervised Visitation Agencies
List of supervised visitation agencies that have received Access to Visitation Grant Program funding (current and past) through the Superior Court as a subcontractor.
Child Custody Mediation: Focus on the Child's Needs
This video has information on court procedures, mediation, child custody evaluation, parenting plans, supervised visitation, and effective presentation of child custody information to the courts. Created by the Judicial Council.
Click here to find this video.
District Attorney/Child Abduction Unit
Your local district attorney can help when a person takes or keeps a child from his or her lawful custodian, when a parent with a right to visitation keeps the other parent from visitation as decided by the court order, or when a person who has custody takes away the noncustodial parent's visitation rights. This statewide roster of district attorneys is posted by the California District Attorneys Association.
A Guide for the Non-Professional Provider of Supervised Visitation (PDF, 48 KB)
This booklet provides answers to questions for non-professional providers of supervised visitation.
Kids Count
This site has resources to help parents make a parenting (custody) plan and to help their children through the divorce and separation process.
International Parental Child Abduction
Web site created by the U.S. State Department.
LawHelpCalifornia Custody/Visitation
Links to information on what happens to your child after you are arrested, child custody mediation, court forms and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Mediation, Child Custody, and Domestic Violence: What is child custody mediation?
Pamphlet created by the Judicial Council of California.
Police
If you have a child custody order, your local police may be able to help you enforce it.
Sacramento Superior Court Family Court Services
This site has information about helping children through a divorce and dealing with child custody issues.
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on family law and other legal topics.
Click here to find a book on this list.
Supervised Visitation Network
This site may help you find supervised visitation services in your county. Click on the "Service Providers Dir." link in the left-hand column to find providers in California.
What Should I Know About Divorce and Custody?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
Division of Juvenile Justice Parole Operations
The official Web site of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Juvenile Parole Operations unit.
Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Juvenile Justice
The official Web site of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Juvenile Justice
The Equity Project
This web site has information on ensuring fairness and respect for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth in juvenile delinquency courts.
How Does California's Juvenile Justice System Work?
This site has an explanation of how the California juvenile justice system works. Written by the California Legislative Analyst's Office.
U.S. Department of Justice/Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
This is the official Web site of the U.S. Department of Justice/Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.
Children and Family Services Division
This site was created to help and protect needy and vulnerable children.
Emergency Response Hotline Numbers for County Child Protective Services
This site has a list of child protective services hotline telephone numbers for all California counties. Posted by the California Department of Social Services, Children and Family Services Division.
Every Child, Every Hearing (PDF). A booklet that provides information on how to ensure the daily well-being of children in foster care by enforcing their rights. Published by the Judicial Council of California.
Fight for Your Rights: A Guidebook for California Foster Youth, Former Foster Youth, and Those Who Care About Them (in pdf format)
A Guidebook to inform foster youth, former foster youth, and advocates about the services and issues that are important to youth preparing for the transition from foster care to self-sufficiency.
LawHelpCalifornia Child Abuse/Neglect
Links to information on the dependency court system, local resources for teens and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Queer & Trans Youth in California Foster Care Have Rights!
This brochure has information on the rights of lesbian, gay bisexual, and transgender youth in California foster care. Created by the National Center for Lesbian Rights.
Divorce Manual - A Client Handbook
This manual covers many topics, including selecting and working with a lawyer. Created by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
Going to Court Without a Lawyer: A Guide for Handling Uncontested Divorces, Legal Separations, and Annulments (PDF)
This brochure will help you understand the court process and fill out the legal forms you will need for an uncontested Divorce, Legal Separation, or Annulment. Prepared by the Judicial Council of California.
LawHelpCalifornia Divorce
Links to information on pension issues for divorced parents, older couple divorce, court forms and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on family law and other legal topics.
Click here to find a book on this list.
What Should I Know About Divorce and Custody?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
Legal Services for Children Emancipation Manual
Questions and answers about emancipation for teenagers.
| NOTE: Guardianships are often handled in probate court. But if a child is a dependent of the juvenile court, only the juvenile court can appoint a legal guardian for the child. If the child in your case is a dependent of the juvenile court, go to the Juvenile Court Guardianship section of the Self-Help Center. |
Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit
Someone who's related to a child can fill out a form called a "caregiver's authorization affidavit." This lets that person sign up the child for school and get medical treatment for the child. A non-relative who fills out a caregiver's authorization affidavit can sign up a child for school and agree to school-related medical care.
If you have any problems using this program, contact us at: equalaccess@jud.ca.gov.
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on guardianship law and other topics. Click on "Probate Law" in the left navigation bar.
Click here to find a book on this list.
Information About Guardianship (Probate Court)
Section of the Self-Help Center that provides information about guardianships.
Alameda County Question and Answer Handbook for Noncustodial Parents: A question and answer resource on paternity establishment and child support
Prepared by Center on Fathers, Families, and Public Policy.
Establishing Paternity (PDF)
Section of the Child Support Handbook published by the California Department of Child Support Services.
LawHelpCalifornia Paternity
Links to information on the rights and responsibilities of incarcerated parents, how to establish parentage and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Adoption Records in California Courts
Adoption files are confidential files and not available to the public. The parties and their attorneys to the adoption may obtain copies of adoption files from the court clerk where the adoption was granted. Other requests may require a court order for release of information from the court file. Click here for a list of courts and their contact information.
For more information, go to the Department of Social Services web site .
Child Welfare Information Gateway Search and Reunion
Web page provides publications and links to assist adopted persons to find family information. A service of the Children's Bureau, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Where to Write for Vital Records
This Web page tells you where to write to ask for birth, death, marriage, or divorce records anywhere in the country.
American With Disabilities Act: ADA Home Page
This site was created by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
This organization's Web site provides advocacy resources on many topics related to disability.
California Department of Education/Special Education Division
This is the official Web site of the California Department of Education, Special Education Division.
California Department of Rehabilitation Web Site
Community Alliance for Special Education (CASE)
This Web site has information on special education rights and responsibilities.
Every Child, Every Hearing (PDF). A booklet that provides information on how to ensure the daily well-being of children in foster care by enforcing their rights. Published by the Judicial Council of California.
LawHelpCalifornia Special Education
Links to information on getting quality special education for your child, the legal rights of students with disabilities and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
National Center on Education, Disabilities, and Juvenile Justice: Parent Support
This site discusses issues related to youth with disabilities who are referred to the juvenile justice system.
The National Information Center for Children and Youth With Disabilities (NICHCY)
NICHCY is a national information and referral center with information on disabilities and related issues for families, educators, and other professionals. NICHCY focuses on children and youth (from birth to age 22).
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
This Web page is posted by the U.S. Department of Education.
A Parent's Guide to Special Education/Special Needs
This site has practical information for nonlawyers. It was created by the Council for Disability Rights.
Protection and Advocacy, Inc. (PAI)
PAI helps people with physical, developmental, or psychiatric disabilities. PAI employees work with students with disabilities and their families to enforce students' rights to be educated in integrated settings. Other services include referral to other resources, advocacy training, and representation in administrative and judicial proceedings, investigation of abuse and neglect, and legislative advocacy.
Federal Courts
Federal Courts
This site is maintained by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts and offers information from and about the Judicial Branch of the U.S. Government.
Supreme Court Opinion Collection
Nearly all of the U.S. Supreme Court opinions issued since May 1990 are available from the Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute.
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Federal Taxes
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Hate Crimes
Hate Crime Prevention Guides (PDF)
These brochures define “hate incident” and “hate crime.” They also describe what we can do to prevent hate crimes, what services are available, and how victims can obtain assistance. These are available in Arabic, Armenian, Chinese, English, Hindi, Korean, Punjabi, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
What Should I Know About Hate Crimes?
A State Bar of California pamphlet explaining your rights and responsibilities if you are a victim of a hate crime. Also available in Spanish.
Your Rights and Remedies as a Victim of Hate Violence
This information sheet from the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) addresses what to do if you’re a victim, why hate violence occurs, how communities have tried to address intolerance, and which community organizations are equipped to provide assistance.
Hate Crimes: Precomplaint Questionnaire (PDF)
The Ralph Civil Rights Act provides protection from hate crimes. This form can help you describe the incident but is not a guarantee for filing a formal complaint.
By the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing.
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Identity Theft, Financial Crime, and Cybercrime Victims
Identity Theft
Financial Crime
Cybercrime
Identity Theft
Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC)
ITRC is a nonprofit, nationally respected program dedicated exclusively to identity theft. It provides consumer and victim support and advises governmental agencies, legislators, and companies about this evolving and growing crime. It includes basic information, from the steps you need to take as a victim of identity theft to guides on the emotional impact and effective communication. Also available in Spanish.
California Office of the Attorney General: Identity Theft Resources
The Office of Victims’ Services provided by the Attorney General includes this site focusing on identity theft, with tips for victims and information on the Identity Theft Resource Center, including how to apply and the necessary forms.
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Information from a brochure that details what the DMV does to protect you from identity theft and what to do to when contacting them if you have become a victim.
California Department of Consumer Affairs: Office of Privacy Protection Identity Theft Resources
This provides information specifically for victims of identity theft in which your identity has been stolen and used by a criminal. A useful resource includes “How to Use the California Identity Theft Registry: A Guide for Victims of “Criminal” Identity Theft.”
U.S. Department of Justice
This site posted by the U.S. Department of Justice includes questions and answers about identity theft, as well as tips for prevention and what to do if you become a victim. It also includes a simple quiz for consumers to find out how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft.
Identity Theft Informational Packet (PDF)
How to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft and what to do if you are a victim.
By: Public Counsel Law Center.
Identity Theft: What to Do if It Happens to You
This guide provides victims of identity theft with instructions on how to regain their financial health and whom to contact for more help.
By the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.
Preventing Identity Theft
Advice on how to prevent identity theft, from Central California Legal Services, which serves several counties in Central California.
United States Postal Service
Advice from United States Postal Service inspectors on how to protect yourself from identity theft in general, as well as tips specific to mail service. The USPS site includes links for more information, tips, and how to contact your local postal inspector.
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Financial Crime
Credit Repair Scams: They Make Your Money Disappear
An illustrated fact sheet that describes what a credit report is and how to find out what is in your credit report. Explains how to correct inaccurate information in your report and advises caution with credit repair companies and guaranteed credit claims.
By Consumer Action and available in English and Spanish.
Don’t Fall for the Wrong Call: Protect Yourself Against Telemarketing Fraud
An eight-page, in-depth guide that provides information on common tricks and charitable donation scams used by telemarketers, how to answer sales calls, warning signs of fraud, how to protect yourself from unwanted calls, your rights under the law, and how you can sue telemarketers who do not honor your wishes not to be called. The guide also contains a listing of complaint-handling agencies and other helpful resources.
By Consumer Action and available in English, Spanish, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese.
How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Insurance Fraud
An illustrated brochure describing the warning signs of insurance fraud and some concrete steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim. Though written specifically to help Asian Americans, this brochure contains information helpful to all consumers. It details several types of insurance fraud, such as fake policies, premium fraud, unlicensed agents, unnecessary services, and insurance scams. It also describes how to get your money back and where to complain about insurance fraud.
By Consumer Action.
Preventing Credit Card Fraud: Learn How to Protect Yourself
A brochure, available in English and Spanish that describes how crooks steal and use credit cards and card numbers and explains how to protect your credit card and what to do if your card has been stolen.
By Consumer Action.
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Cybercrime
Cyberstalking
Information on what to do if you are a victim of cyberstalking, or online crime. From the National Center for Victims of Crime.
High-Tech Crime (PDF)
Protecting Yourself in the Computer Age
By the California Attorney General’s Crime and Violence Prevention Center.
High-Tech Crime and Scams
This site offers crime-prevention tips and advice for victims of high-tech crimes and identity theft, and links to other sites for victims of cyberabuse.
By the California Office of the Attorney General’s Crime and Violence Prevention Center.
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
IC3 serves as a vehicle to receive, develop, and refer criminal complaints regarding the rapidly expanding arena of cybercrime. IC3 is a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National White Collar Crime Center.
“Take a Bite Out of Cyber Crime” Cyber Crime Center
A site provided by McGruff the Crime Dog® dedicated to fighting cybercrime. It explains how to identify and protect yourself against threats such as computer viruses, worms, spam, spyware, phishing, identity theft, and online predators. Available resources include an informational booklet and a list with specific links for parents, children, and others.
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Immigration Law
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Landlord/Tenant (Rental Housing)
California Department of Consumer Affairs Publications: Landlord/Tenant
This site includes guides covering many landlord/tenant topics.
California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)
DFEH investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and hate violence. The Web site has information on California's fair employment laws, frequently asked questions, brochures, and forms.
Or call DFEH:
1-800-233-3212
TTY: 1-800-700-2320 (from California)
TTY: 1-916-227-0551 (outside California)
LawHelpCalifornia Housing
Information on public housing and subsidized housing (section 8), housing discrimination, landlord and tenant issues, and discrimination & sexual harassment.
Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO)
This site will help you to file a complaint if you believe your rights have been violated. Created by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Local Codes and Charters
This Web site provides access to the codes and charters of many California cities and towns. These local laws can be very helpful in landlord/tenant cases. The site was created by U.C. Berkeley's Institute of Governmental Studies.
National Housing Law Project
This site focuses on public housing and low-income tenants' issues.
People With Disabilities
This site has information for people with disabilities from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Web site.
Publications Relating to Housing
This site has a list of publications for people with disabilities. Developed by Protection and Advocacy, Inc.
San Francisco Law Library's Landlord/Tenant Research Guide
This site has a list of books dealing with landlord/tenant issues.
Click here to find a book on this list.
Small Claims
The Small Claims section of the Self-Help Center can help you get back a security deposit.
What Should I Know Before I Rent?
A consumer education pamphlet created by the State Bar of California.
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Legal Document Assistants
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Legal Help
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Legal Research
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Military Issues
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Restitution, Victim Compensation, and Restorative Justice
Restituion and Victim Compensation
Restorative Justice
Restitution and Victim Compensation
Restitution Forms for Victims of Adult or Juvenile Crime
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Office of Victim and Survivor Services
This site offers the following information on restitution and fines and other useful information:
Types of Restitution:
Other Information on Restitution:
California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (VCGCB)
The VCGCB administers the Victim Compensation Program (VCP) and the Government Claims Board. The VCP helps victims of violent crime and their families deal with the emotional, physical, and financial aftermath of crime. The site allows victims to apply for compensation and includes the necessary forms in English or Spanish. It also includes current legislation, statutes, and regulations that apply to compensation. Contact numbers for the programs are Victim Compensation, 800-777-9229; and Government Claims, 800-955-0045.
Information on Crime Victims' Compensation (PDF)
This brochure explains how victims of crime can be compensated for financial, emotional, and physical losses. Created by the Judicial Council of California. Downloadable as a PDF.
National Crime Victim Bar Association (NCVBA): Helping Crime Victims Pursue Civil Justice
The NCVBA provides technical support to attorneys representing crime victims in civil actions, refers crime victims to lawyers in their local area, and works to increase general awareness about the availability of civil remedies for victims of crime. The section for victims includes Civil Justice for Victims of Crime, an easy-to-read booklet designed to give crime victims and those who work with victims a basic understanding of the civil justice system and to make them aware of the civil justice option.
Restorative Justice
California Community Justice Project
The mission of the California Community Justice Project is to enhance awareness and understanding of community justice principles and practices, facilitate information sharing between existing community justice programs and start-up programs, and facilitate the development of local practices consistent with community justice principles. This site from the Judicial Council of California includes resources, promising and model practices, and other helpful information.
Balanced and Restorative Justice: A Manual for California (PDF)
This manual catalogs balanced and restorative justice practices and model programs being used in California and around the country. It provides contact information for practitioners and descriptions of practices being followed in local communities. The manual is a resource for the courts, and it encourages judges and community stakeholders to develop collaborative partnerships that can improve outcomes for youth, victims, and communities affected by crime. The manual is approximately 90 pages, so if you would prefer to print only a particular section, please use the table of contents to find and print only the area in which you are interested.
Restorative Conferencing: California Community Justice Project (PDF)
This pamphlet describes restorative conferencing and provides examples of practices that use restorative principles.
A Summary of the Evaluations of Six Victim Offender Reconciliation Programs (VORP) (PDF)
This report from May 2000 reviews six programs in California. It includes contact information for programs throughout California and resources such as publications, videos, organizations, and training programs.
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Seniors (includes Elder Law and Conservatorships)
California Commission on Aging
This Web site gives contact information for the California Commission on Aging, the principal advocate in the state for older individuals.
Citizen's Guide to Preventing & Reporting Elder Abuse (PDF)
This 36-page booklet offers guidance on ways to protect yourself and loved ones from becoming a victim of elder abuse.
County Adult Protective Services (APS)
County Adult Protective Services (APS) helps adults who cannot care for themselves, or may have been abused or neglected. They handle reports of abuse in private homes, hotels, hospitals, health clinics, and daycare centers.
Department of Housing and Urban Development Information for Senior Citizens
This site has information for seniors from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Handbook for Conservators
This handbook provides the step-by-step information and tools needed to fulfill the role of conservator of a person or estate.
The Handbook for Conservators is copyrighted by the Judicial Council of California. The council hereby gives permission for any person to view the handbook on this Web site and to download in PDF format or print all or any portion of it for personal use only. However, all other rights are reserved. Any other use of all or any part of the handbook, including but not limited to reproduction for sale or resale, without the express written consent of the Judicial Council is prohibited. [Note: All private conservators must sign a receipt for a copy of this handbook before Letters of Conservatorship are issued.]
LawHelpCalifornia Conservatorship
Links to information on the duties of a conservator, link to a conservatorship handbook, conservatorship forms and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
LawHelpCalifornia Elder Abuse
Links to information on how to prevent elder abuse, elder financial abuse, where to find elder abuse forms and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Local legal services offices for seniors in California
Directory of legal services offices for people 60 and over. Posted by the Northern California Senior Legal Hotline .
Medicare
The official U.S. government Web site for Medicare.
Sacramento County Public Law Library Legal Guides
This site has a list of books on conservatorship law and other topics. Click on "Probate Law" in the left navigation bar.
Click here to find a book on this list.
Seniors & the Law: A Guide for Maturing Californians
Comprehensive guide prepared by The State Bar of California.
Social Security Administration
The official U.S. government Web site of the Social Security Administration.
U.S. Administration on Aging
This Web site has links and information for the elderly.
What Should I Know About Elder Abuse?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
With Heart: Understanding Conservatorships
This video was produced by the Alameda County Bar Association.
Click here to find this video.
See also: Wills, Probate, Trusts, and Estates resources
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Small Claims
Books and Pamphlets About Small Claims Court
This Web page created by the San Mateo County Small Claims Legal Advisor lists books and pamphlets that can help you with your small claims case.
Click here to find a book on this list.
California Bureau of Automotive Repair
Web site of the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), a part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)
The DCA Web site lists people and organizations that may be able to help you. The DCA Web site also has publications to help you in these areas:
Accounting
Automobiles
Bankruptcy
Barbering and Cosmetology
Cemetery/Funeral
Construction and Home Improvement
Contracts
Credit
Dental
Electronic and Appliance Repair
Engineering/Geology
General
Health
Hearing/Speech
Hiring State-Licensed Individuals and Businesses
Home Furnishings
Identity Theft
Landlord
Medical Board
Natural Disasters (in PDF format)
Pest Control
Pharmacy
Physician Assistant
Podiatric Medicine
Privacy
Psychotherapy
Retail Sales and Business Advertising
Rental Property
Returns, Refunds, and Warranties
Sales
Schools
Security
Small Claims Court
Smog
Tenants
California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Labor Standards Enforcement
This site offers help with wage disputes, discrimination complaints, enforcement of California's labor laws and Industrial Welfare Commission orders, and more.
California Department of Insurance (CDI)
The CDI site is designed to help consumers, aid in the licensing of insurance agents or brokers, and provide information on the laws that regulate the insurance industry.
California State Sheriff's Association
This Web site can help you find your county's sheriff.
Civil Procedural Manual
Published by the California State Sheriff's Association, this book can help you find information about civil procedural law.
Click here to find this book
Contractors State License Board (CSLB) - Filing Construction Complaints
The CSLB may be able to help you if you have a complaint against a licensed contractor.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
The DMV can help you file a complaint against a car dealer.
District Attorney
The district attorney's office in your county may be able to help you with consumer problems. This statewide roster of district attorneys is posed by the California District Attorneys Association.
Does and Don't of Using Small Claims Court (PDF 405 KB)
State Department of Consumer Affairs guide to using small claims court.
How Do I Use the Small Claims Court?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
Information About Disputes With Lawyers
List of resources posted by the Judicial Council of California.
LawHelpCalifornia Small Claims Court
Links to information on using small claims court, frequently asked questions, small claims forms and more. (Select your county or enter your zip code for information specific to the area that you live in.)
Local legal services offices for seniors in California
Directory of legal services offices for people 60 and over. Posted by the Northern California Senior Legal Hotline .
Small Claims Court: A Guide to Its Practical Use
Guide prepared by the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
Small Claims Legal Advisors
Advisors can help you to understand California's small claims court system. The services offered by small claims advisors are different in each county. List of advisors posted by the Judicial Council of California.
See also on this site:
Landlord/Tenant Information
This section of the Self-Help Center has information on: eviction, rental deposits, housing discrimination, and free and low-cost legal help in landlord/tenant matters.
What Should I Know Before I Sign?
A State Bar of California pamphlet.
You Don't Have to Sue (Solve a Problem Without Going to Court)
This section of the Self-Help Center can teach you about mediators and other ways to solve a problem with going to small claims court.
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Traffic
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Wills, Probate, Trusts, and Estates
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Workers' Compensation
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Workplace Violence
Domestic Violence in the Workplace
This site from the Family Violence Prevention Fund includes information mostly directed at employers, but there is information that can help victims understand their rights.
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Legal Rules, Regulations, and Other Resources
To see rules, regulations, and resources by jurisdiction, click on a link below:
State (California)
Local
Federal
State (California)
Constitution
Codes
Regulations
This site does not post all regulations of the State of California. If you need a regulation that is not posted, your county law library may be able to help.
California Rules of Court
Judicial Council Forms
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Local
Local Codes and Charters
If your community's local code and charter are not on the above site, look for copies of your local laws at your county law library or local public library .
Local Rules of Court
The court in each county has its own local rules of court.
| ALERT! You must follow the local rules of the court where your case is filed. No two counties' local rules are exactly alike! |
The local rules for each court tell you how that court does things. For example, local rules will often tell you about the forms required in your case.
Or if there's more than one courthouse in the county, the local rules may tell you where to file your case. They will also explain if there are certain guidelines that the court uses for some types of cases.
If you don't follow the local rules, your case may be delayed while you correct something.
Click here to find local rules for a court.
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Federal
Constitution
Supreme Court Opinion Collection
Nearly all of the U.S. Supreme Court opinions issued since May 1990 are available from the Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute.
Supreme Court Decisions
U.S. Supreme Court decisions from 1937 to 1974. You can also get opinions at your county law library or from a commercial service.
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Other Web Sites Covering Many Topics
FirstGov
This site links to any government information available on the Internet on your topic.
The Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School
This Web site gives an overview of many legal topics. Click on the "Law about ..." link.
Native American Issues
Section of LawHelpCalifornia.org Web site. Includes information on the Indian Child Welfare Act, tribal government, and other Native American issues.
Public Benefits and Health
Section of LawHelpCalifornia.org Web site. Includes information on child care and foster care, welfare, social security, Medi-Cal and Medicare, food stamps, homelessness, unemployment insurance, nursing homes, mental health, control over health care decisions, and prescription drug benefits.
Washburn University School of Law Library
Work
Section of LawHelpCalifornia.org Web site. Includes information on unemployment insurance, worker's compensation, pensions, and wrongful termination and working conditions.
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Web Sites With Resources in Other States
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Last modified: 05/27/2009
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