Person at desk on computer

Our Legal Self-Help Centers make available correct and current information on Illinois law and court proceedings. A navigator is present during normal working hours to assist individuals with using the available computer and print resources. Be advised, Navigators and employees of the Circuit Clerk’s Office cannot give out legal advice or tell you which forms to fill out.

Visit one of our self-help centers in person, use our Online Self Help Center to the right or visit ILAO for more resources and information.

Winnebago County Self-Help Center

Winnebago County Courthouse
400 West State Street, Room 304 (inside the law library)
Rockford, Illinois 61101
Navigator's Hours: 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday
815-319-4526 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Boone County Self-Help Center

Boone County Courthouse
601 North Main Street (inside the law library)
Belvidere, Illinois 61008
Navigator's Hours: 10 am to 2 pm Monday through Friday
815-547-8083

Legal Aid Resources

Although you are representing yourself, there are services that can provide you free or low cost help.

For legal services for qualifying individuals:

For online self-help tools:

  • Illinois Legal Aid Online - free online legal resource center including a large form library
    • illinoislegalaid.org
  • Guide & File - free online service to fill out forms to send to court
    • illinois.tylerhost.net/SRL
  • Illinois Court Help - court guides to help you understand and go through the court process, wherever you are in Illinois
    • ilcourthelp.gov or call or text (833) 411-1121
  • Illinois Access to Justice - find legal information, court forms, and referrals to free or low-cost legal help
    • atjil.org
  • Illinois Supreme Court Self Representation - resources provided by the Illinois Supreme Court
  • Going to court on your own video - "Going to court can be scary. Prepare by watching this video which shows each step in the process."
    • illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/going-court-your-own

For domestic violence intervention and prevention services:

  • Domestic Violence Assistance Center (DVAC) - Free and confidential Orders of Protection assistance in Winnebago County for those who qualify
    • Call (815) 516- 2440, or visit 400 W. State Street, 3rd floor Old Courthouse, Rockford
  • Information on filing Orders of Protection - How to file a protection order online in Winnebago and Boone Counties
  • Remedies - providing services for Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse to Winnebago and Boone Counties
    • remediesrenewinglives.org or Call 24 Hr. Domestic Violence Hotline at (815) 962-6102
  • Rockford Sexual Assault Counseling - 24/7 Crisis Hotline in Winnebago, Boone & Ogle Counties
    • rockfordsexualassaultcounseling.org or Call (815) 636-9811
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline- 24/7 access to resources and support
    • thehotline.org or Call (800) 799-7233 or text "START" to (800) 799-7233
  • The Family Peace Center - a multi-agency service center that provides services to victims of inter-personal violence
    • rockfordfamilypeacecenter.org or Call (779) 348-7600 or visit 315 N. Main Street, Rockford

For help finding an attorney: