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