Clerical Assistance for Pro Se Litigants

Magistrate Court clerks may not practice law, but may provide basic information regarding procedures, routine legal forms, available forms, and proceedings in the Magistrate Court. Each Chief Magistrate may institute methods for clerks to assist litigants and may utilize Appendix A “Guidelines and Instructions for Clerks Who Assist Pro Se Litigants in Georgia's Courts,” in directing the conduct of clerical personnel. Clerks may also, in the absence of contrary judicial direction, rely on Appendix A for guidance in avoiding unlawful practice of law. Said Appendix shall not be considered a directory rule, nor as binding authority, but may be considered by Magistrates and the Supreme Court as persuasive authority on the scope of lawful provision of legal information by clerks; further such guidelines shall be admissible in showing good faith by clerks in providing information and assistance to the public. Adopted effective February 19, 2009. 24