Legal Tip of the Week
Going to Court: Courthouse Staff
Always be polite to the Court staff and be prepared with any information they may need.
Going to Court: Be on time!
Be on time for your Court appearance or for any other appointment about your case.
Going to Court: How to Behave
Be respectful of everyone in the Court. This includes the judge, the Court staff, the other party involved in your case, and the witnesses.
Going to Court: Your Appearance
When you go to Court, dress as professionally as you can. This means clothes that are clean and neat.
Government Benefits: Reporting Changes
If you are applying for or receiving a government benefit designed for low-income people, promptly report all changes in household size and income.
Housing: Mortgage Payments
If you are behind in your mortgage payments, or if you are concerned that you will not be able to make your mortgage payments, contact a government-approved Housing Counselor for assistance and advice.
Housing: Being a Good Tenant
Be a good tenant. Pay your rent on time. Keep your apartment clean.
Consumer: Credit Reports
Order a copy of your credit report. Make sure it’s accurate and includes only those activities you’ve authorized. Test
Consumer: Bank Account Balances
If you don’t have enough money in your account, don’t write the check or authorize the debit.
Consumer: Bank Accounts
Don’t give your account number and bank routing information to anyone you don’t know.
General: Keeping Important Papers
After you sign any important paper, keep and save a copy.
Consumer: Co-signing a Loan
Beware of co-signing. When you co-sign for a relative or co-worker to buy a car or obtain a loan, you become legally responsible for making the payments if the other person stops making them.
Consumer: Buying Goods and Services
Beware of door-to-door, phone, and television salespersons. Chances are good that you do not really need the item or service, or that you can get a better deal elsewhere.
Government Benefits: Keeping Appointments
If you are applying for or receiving any type of government benefit, try not to miss appointments, and show up on time for appointments whenever possible.
Housing: Written Leases
If you sign a lease to rent an apartment or a house, get and keep a copy.