• About SHLAC

• SHLAC Locations

• SHLAC History

• SHLAC Statistics

• SHLAC Partners

SHLAC History

There has been a steady increase in the number of litigants that represent themselves in California Courts. People that go to court without a lawyer are called "pro per" or "pro se" litigants. Pro per litigants represent a new challenge for the court system because they are often unfamiliar with court procedures and requirements. The Self-Help Legal Access Center (SHLAC) program was developed to help the large number of pro per litigants by proving information and resources to them. SHLACs help the court process run more smoothly and increase citizens' feelings of satisfaction about the justice system.

The County of Los Angeles began funding the SHLAC program in 2000. Neighborhood Legal Services (NLS) was chosen in a competitive process to operate the centers. The first SHLAC opened in Van Nuys in October of 2000. Since then the County has funded seven additional facilities in Pomona, Inglewood, Antelope Valley, Long Beach, Santa Monica, San Fernando, and Torrance.

About SHLAC | SHLAC Locations | SHLAC History | SHLAC Statistics | SHLAC Partners