This guide is designed to provide information and resources to commonly asked questions from self-represented litigants in the Hawai‘i Court system.
Disclaimer: The information provided should not be construed as legal advice or legal assistance.
Note: Call No. references are for materials held at the libraries of the Hawaii State Law Library System (HSLLS).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I do legal research?
Hawai‘i State Law Library System Locations and Contact Information
The libraries have public computers with free access to the internet and various legal databases for legal research. Library staff can assist with legal research by locating appropriate resources and information.
Where can I go to prepare my court paperwork?Self-Help computer station with access to various self-represented litigant online services and Microsoft Word for drafting forms and legal documents. Printing charged at $.15 per page, cash or check payment only.
What does this legal term mean?
- Black’s Law Dictionary, 11th ed. Call No. KF156 B56 2019
- Black’s Law Dictionary, 2nd ed.
- Glossary, American Bar Association
- Law Dictionary, Merriam-Webster
- WEX, Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School
What court form do I use?
- Court Forms, Hawai‘i State Judiciary
- Forms by Circuit: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th and Jurisdiction: Civil, District, Family, Traffic
- Statewide Forms: Agency Appeal, Appellate, Civil Information Sheet, Land and Tax Appeal Court, Mortgage Foreclosure Conversion
- Select Forms and Procedural Instructions, Hawai‘i Rules of Court
- Hawai‘i Self-Help Interactive Forms, Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i
- Hawai‘i Appellate Practice Manual, 2012 Call No. KFH555 H32
Who do I give completed court forms to?Completed forms are filed with the court that has jurisdiction over your case. Filing fees may apply.
Court Contact and Filing Fee Information
- Appellate
Contact and
Filing Fees- Circuit
- District
- Family
Where is the court located and what do I do when I get there?Where can I get legal help?
- Self-Help Centers of the Hawai‘i State Judiciary
- Hawaiʻi Legal Services Portal
- HOP: Hawai‘i Online Pro-Bono
- Legal Line Hotline (O‘ahu) 537-1868, Available Wednesdays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- Legal Services for Civil Matters in Hawaii
Are there any other helpful local services or resources?
Last updated: April 22, 2025