Frequently Asked Questions about CourtFormPrep

Once you choose the CourtFormPrep form you need, whether for Small Claims Court, divorce or legal separation, or other family law cases, you will be taken to our partner site, LawHelp Interactive. You will answer questions in an interview format. Your answers will be used to fill in forms you need for your case. The forms have been approved by the Vermont Court. At the end of the interview, you will “submit” your answers. Then you will download or save your documents for printing and filing with the Court.

LawHelp Interactive hosts online forms for low-income people throughout the country thanks to a generous donation by Lexis Nexis. It is an encrypted, secure server. Find out more about LawHelp Interactive.

Using LawHelp Interactive

What software do I need?

You will need Microsoft Word, Adobe Reader, Adobe Flash Player, Microsoft Internet Explorer, and a printer.

Note: Microsoft WordPad is NOT the same as Microsoft Word. Using WordPad WILL cause problems with your documents.

If you are using a library computer, ask the librarian if the computer has the programs you need. If not, ask if they will install the programs for you.

How much does it cost?

There is no cost for using this program. You may need to pay a filing fee when you take your printed forms to the Court. Go to the Vermont Judiciary website for more information about filing fees.

If you have a low income, you can ask the Court to waive the filing fee by filling out an Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis, also called an IFP form or a fee waiver form.

Why am I getting an error message or a blank screen?

Adobe Flash Player MUST be installed on the computer you are using in order to view the interviews. If Flash is not installed, you will get an error message at the beginning of your interview indicating there’s a problem. If you are using your own computer, Flash is safe, easy to install, and free.

To download the latest version of Flash, click here: Adobe Flash Player.

Scroll down and click “Install Now.” You do not need the free McAfee Security Scan Plus and should uncheck that box if you don't want to install it.

Please Note: If you are using a public computer, check with the organization to find out if Adobe Flash Player is already installed.

You may need to restart your computer after installation.

What do I need to agree to in order to use this program?

Read LawHelp Interactive's Terms of Use and Specific Terms of Use for Self Helpers.

Where can I learn about security on LawHelp Interactive?

Click here to read the full privacy policy.

User Name & Password

Do I have to register for a user name and password?

No, you do not have to register for a user name and password on LawHelp Interactive to use these interviews. However, we strongly recommend signing up for a username and password. You can save your interviews only if you have a user name and password.

Why would I want to register for a user name and password on LawHelp Interactive?

Signing up for a user name and password helps you save time. It lets you save your answers each time you complete an interactive court form. When you need to make changes to your documents or when you are completing documents with two or more steps, the work you have done will be saved.

If you are completing documents to file for divorce, for example, you can save your answers when you complete the first set of documents. When you are ready to work on them again, you can get your saved answer file and complete the documents you need to finalize your divorce.

Your answers are stored on a secure, encrypted server. Encrypted is a fancy way of saying your information is stored in secret code. No one but you can get your information, unless you share your user name and password with someone else. Click here to read about the server privacy policy.

How do I save my forms?

When you choose the form you need, you will be taken to our partner website, LawHelp Interactive. If you want to save your work, register and create an account with LawHelp Interactive. This will give you a user name and password. Registration is free and easy.

At the end of the interview, you will be given the option to "Save Answers." Click on the Save Answers button. Your answers to the interview question will saved. You will be able to look at your answers, print the forms again, or go back to the interview and make changes by logging in to your account on the LawHelp Interactive site.

What if I have to stop the program before I'm finished?

You should not start this program until you have time to finish. If you are running out of time, quickly answer the questions. Get to the end of the program. Save your answers. You can log back in later to make any changes that you need to your answers.

Representing Yourself in Court

What should I know about representing myself in court?

When you represent yourself in court you are held to the same standards as a lawyer. Your must follow the same rules for preparation, paperwork, behavior at all hearings.

You should always talk to a lawyer about your legal issues before filing any legal paperwork. Even if you do not hire a lawyer to appear in your case, a lawyer can give you information about your rights.

Click here to read more information about representing yourself.

Where can I find an attorney if I decide I need one?

You can contact the Vermont State Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 1-800-639-7036 or online by clicking here for a referral to a licensed attorney.

If you have a low income, you can also contact Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047 to see if you qualify for Legal Aid services.