Top 20 Sites for DIY Law

Have a legal situation but are on the fence on whether or not to hire a lawyer? Then try out these top 20 sites for do-it-yourself law to see if you really do. They can help you with everything from a common legal issue to a rare law.

Top Legal Sites For DIY and Beyond

In addition to DIY legal help, these sites can also help with many other aspects of the law.

  1. Find Law
    This site stands out for its Individual Issues found directly on the homepage on a ton of common legal areas including, accidents, civil rights, DUI, divorce, foreclosure, real estate, and many others. There is also a Learn About The Law section that includes instructive articles and videos. You can even utilize the Find Answers tab to look up resolutions to common legal problems. If that isn’t enough for you, there is a Q & A section where legal questions are posted and answered.
  2. Law.com
    With an impressive network that includes a law catalog, expert information, and more, this site is definitely worth a look. Also of note is the resources with help in the form of law papers and an online legal dictionary. While you’re there, be sure to check out the vast array of legal blogs on every topic from personal injury to technology.
  3. Law Guru
    This site is an ideal stop for those who simply need the answer to a legal question. Simply type it in to get legal help with no charge or obligation. Other tools include a knowledge base, legal forms, article library, and even a section on Weird & Dumb Laws. There are also resources for professionals and students, in addition to the public, and even a law term of the day.
  4. Blawg
    Ideal for those who want to research first, this site is a comprehensive source for legal blogs, podcasts, and news feeds. They currently track thousands of blogs and hundreds of posts on a daily basis to bring you the best in expert legal advice. If you’re looking for something specific, use the Blawg directory to look up subjects such as federal law, news, legal writing, and even litigation support.
  5. Legal-Aid
    Need a lawyer but can’t afford one? Then try here for a national non-profit dedicated to doing just that. They have handled nearly 300,000 legal situations across the nation and specialize in various areas of law. There is also a “Know Your Rights” video series with tons of free legal advice.

Top Sites for International DIY Law

The below sites are ideal for DIY law outside the United States.

  1. Contact Law
    Stop here for over 4,000 solicitors located throughout the U.K. to help individuals and businesses in all areas of law including family, employment, litigation, commercial, personal injury, probate, immigration, and conveyancing. You can also speak to one of their representatives for free legal advice and help finding the right lawyer. Be sure to click under Legal Issue for tons of help on all sorts of law situations.
  2. The Law Society
    They represents solicitors in England and Wales from negotiating with and lobbying the profession’s regulators, government and others, to offering training and advice. There is an online library with fast and easy access to loads of resources. You can also get help for finding or even becoming a lawyer.
  3. ComLaw
    Visit this site to get a broad view of the Commonwealth of Australia Law. A highlight of this site is the option to search for commonly viewed legislation. It can also help you get low or no cost access to the law with the help of the Australian Attorney General’s Department.
  4. Ministry of Law and Justice
    If you live in or are visiting India, stop here for help with their law. They have a variety of options to choose from including the Legislative Department, Department of Justice, and even on-line databases. You can also get links to various federal and local courts, along with the India law code.
  5. LawOnline Singapore
    This site can connect you to resources such as Law Watch, Law Society, and Government Portal. There is also information on local law firms, resources, and even journals. Be sure not to miss Forms & Samples area for an online database of common papers.

Top Advanced Sites for DIY Law

For the more accomplished do-it-yourself-er, try these sites.

  1. Nolo
    An excellent site, they provide answers for the individual, family, and even business. Straight from the homepage you can get help with many common legal issues such as filing for bankruptcy, making a will, getting a divorce, and much more. You can browse through one of the many products they have for sale, or take advantage of their free law dictionary or legal encyclopedia. There are also many expert law blogs to choose from.
  2. Avvo
    Similar to the above, you can browse tons of free legal guides with information on everyday issues. If you can’t find what you are looking for there, try the Answers & Advice area with free, personalized advice from actual attorneys. If those don’t help, they can help you find a lawyer in your area for no charge.
  3. Blog.LegaWriting.Net
    Why pay a lawyer hundreds of dollars to write a letter when you can do it yourself? Wayne Schiess is a law professor and often blogs on the art of legal writing. Categories include improvement, law practice, teaching legal writing, and more.
  4. Absolutely Free Legal Documents
    Save tons of money by downloading that contract or form here instead of paying a lawyer to do one. With a Google-like search engine, you are sure to find what you need. You can also search by subjects such as employment, wills, intellectual property, patents, and more. They even have a Free Legal Information section with more.
  5. JuriSearch
    A more advanced site, they let you search for court cases and their verdicts. You can also get information on statutes and rules. Resource links include code of regulations, U.S. code, Bar associations, and others.

Top Official Sites for DIY Law

Both lawyers and those interested in DIY will find loads of information on these government run and private legal sites.

  • American Bar Association
    A requirement for all lawyers, the ABA is an excellent resources for those with a legal issue. Help for the public comes in the form of publications, tips for getting legal help, and expert information on a variety of topics. There are also tools for professionals and students.
  • Internal Revenue Service
    Audits and other tax issues are more common than you think. Visit this site if you are having problems or would like to avoid them whether you are an individual, business, or charity. There are many online services and tools such as a rebate calculator, online forms, and much more.
  • U.S. Copyright Office
    Have a great idea and wonder if you need a lawyer’s help? Then visit here before spending your hard-earned money. The copyright office has answers to many questions such as current fees, copyrights that are already registered, and even an FAQ section. You can even use the Electronic Copyright Office to register your idea online.
  • Guide To Law Online
    Prepared by the Law Library of Congress Public Services Division, this an annotated guide to sources of information on government and law available online. Start by clicking an area such as international, federal, or state. If you need help narrowing it down, try the Guide Index.
  • U.S. State Law
    If you need to find the law in a particular state, stop here. It was one of the very first online law and government sites founded in 1995 by Lex Mundi, a large network of independent law firms. Resources include a law firm directory, expert information, and more.
  • Although it is always best to know as much as possible before entering into a legal situation, please consult an accredited attorney before making an important decision influenced by these top 20 sites for DIY law. Many reputable lawyers will offer a free consultation, or at least a phone call, before requiring a financial commitment from you.