Legal questions tend to show up out of nowhere, and it is not always obvious where to start. We hear that often at the Allegheny County Law Library, and it was clear that people needed a more straightforward place to begin. That is why we created an online guide that brings essential local information together in one place, the Legal Resources for the Public LibGuide.
Inside the LibGuide, readers will find clear sections that mirror the major areas of law in Allegheny County. Pages cover topics such as Family Court, Everyday Civil Matters, Orphans’ Court proceedings, Criminal Court, and the structure of the local court system. Each topic is broken into smaller pages that explain topics such as custody, divorce, landlord-tenant issues, name changes, guardianship, and more. The guide also includes information on legal aid organizations, self-help tools, and practical steps for representing yourself in court.
The structure of the guide reflects a larger goal. People deserve clear, local information that makes the legal system feel a little less overwhelming. While the LibGuide is not a substitute for legal advice, it brings together the key procedures, forms, and resources you may need as you learn more about your legal issue. Our hope is that it offers readers a steadier sense of direction.
We will continue to update the LibGuide as new resources, rules, and local information become available. If you have any questions or want help using any of these materials, the Allegheny County Law Library is here to support you. We encourage you to explore the guide and use it as a starting point as you navigate your legal questions.
And remember, you can always fill out our Ask a Librarian contact form and get help from us even if you can’t visit in-person. We are always here to help.