Define the Question

• Determine what area of law your questions falls under. If your question is about how to sign a contract to purchase a home, you will need advice in the area of real estate law. If your question is how to file charges for a theft at your business, seek advice in the area of criminal law.
  
  

Internet Resources

• Check the Internet for resources under the category that your legal question falls into. Sites such as FindLaw.com and NOLO.com have information for consumers in most areas of law. These site direct you to statutes, court decisions and agencies that can provide additional insight into legal matters.
  
  

Court Clerks

• Contact the office of the clerk in the county in which you reside or where your legal matter takes place. The clerks office can give you advice about how to begin a civil suit. The clerk's office can also put you in contact with services in the county that offer legal aid and advice.
  
  

Attorneys

• Retain a lawyer or seek legal aid. Find a lawyer who has expertise in the appropriate area of law by checking with state and local bar association lawyer referral services. Find a legal aid service in your county, if your income qualifies you to receive such a service. Some law firms permit one free consultation; use the consultation as an opportunity to further define your legal question.