Professional document preparation for self-represented clients.
Small claims, deeds and selected civil document preparation for self-represented parties. By The People offices work from the information and instructions supplied by customers who have chosen to handle their legal matter without attorney representation.
California availability: This page concerns self-help document preparation for California matters. Services, procedures and pricing vary by independently owned office.
Small claims and civil paperwork
Selected offices prepare small claims forms, deed-related documents and other limited civil paperwork for self-represented parties. Because services differ by location, customers should contact the nearest office with the exact document request.
- Plaintiff’s claim forms
- Defendant’s claim forms
- Service-related forms
- Requests to correct or vacate
- Selected deed documents
- Other limited civil forms
How the process works
Contact the office nearest you, describe the document service you are requesting, provide the facts and information needed for the paperwork, and receive a flat-fee quote. The local office will explain its own intake, turnaround, delivery and filing-assistance process.
Common questions
What can California small claims document preparation include?
The exact documents depend on the service requested and the office handling the matter. Contact your nearest By The People office for the specific documents it prepares.
Can By The People give me legal advice?
No. California Legal Document Assistants prepare documents at the customer's specific direction and do not provide legal advice or representation.
How much does document preparation cost?
Pricing varies by service and location. By The People offices generally use flat-fee pricing rather than hourly attorney billing.
Are filing fees included?
Court filing fees, recording fees, service fees and other third-party costs are separate unless the office specifically states that they are included.