Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Parking is available on the street (though generally, parking is limited to two hours). Free parking is available at the parking garage at the corner of Ringling Boulevard and School Avenue, across from the Department of Health. This is approximately two blocks or less from the judicial center.

We are open by appointment only. Call (941) 861-8191. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as court holidays.

Yes. We have three computers for legal research purposes. We reserve the right to ask someone to leave if they are not doing legal research or after 30 minutes of use if other patrons are waiting.

Printing and photocopying is currently a free service. However, we ask patrons to be mindful of the amount they print and whether something can be emailed instead of printed.

We are a very small space and would prefer that you do not.

Yes, we have one dedicated computer with access to Westlaw

No. If you need to speak to an attorney you should refer to the “Lawyers & Legal Referrals” section of the website.

No.

No. In addition to possibly being construed as the unlicensed practice of law (see Florida Statute 454.23), the law is complex and should only be given by a qualified professional (e.g., an attorney). Self help and library employees can answer simple procedural questions (such as where to go to file a form) or which reference materials might be helpful for your research.

No.

No; however we have multiple legal dictionaries and other references available to help you understand unfamiliar language and/or terminology.

No. If you need help in Spanish, call to make an appointment at (941) 861-8191. If you need to translate forms from English to Spanish and Spanish to English please seek the services of a Notary Public who speaks Spanish.

No. We currently do not have the space for this. Please hold client meetings elsewhere, such as outside the courthouse.

Yes. We have a system for checking out CLE CDs. Please call our office or stop by if you are interested.

Unfortunately books are unavailable to be checked out for all patrons, including attorneys. Most of our collection is available electronically. The staff is happy to scan or print any selection of a book for legal research.