Q: I have received a notice to appear for a order of harassment. I need help in knowing what to do. I need a lawyer to help
The person who filed this against me lives above me in the apartment building we live in. I want to know if I have the rite to see her complaint forms. I have been told that in order for her to file this against me she had to list 3 times I harassed her. I have never been to court except one time when I was witness. I have never even got a speeding ticket so I am very upset about this. This involves a situation to due with COVID-19 and I can explain more in detail in a phone call. I feel I should have a lawyer help me with this. Unfortunately I am disabled and on a very limited budget so I would need to know how much this would cost and whether I am able to receive a public defender's help for this matter. Thank you so very much.
A: Because restraining and harassment prevention orders are civil as opposed to criminal, you are not afforded a public defender, regardless of your financial means. You can view the affidavit your neighbor made at the courthouse (if it is even open). Perhaps the clerk can email or fax you a copy. Most courts are currently conducting only telephonic hearings and otherwise closed to the public. Good luck.
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