This January 2007 benchguide from the Judicial Council of California is intended to assist judicial officers in the handling of cases involving self-represented litigants. This benchguide covers the following topics in addition to providing sample scripts:

·          Self-rep. litigants: Who are they and what do they face when they come to court?

·          Expanding access to the court without compromising neutrality

·          California law applicable to a judge’s ethical duties in dealing with SRLs

·          Solutions for evidentiary Challenges

·          Caseflow management

·          Courtroom and hearing management

·          Settling cases

·          Special due process considerations

·          Communication tools

·          Avoiding unintended bias

·          Addressing litigant mental health issues in the courtroom

·          Judicial leadership in access to justice