Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about court services, processes, and resources in the Sixth Judicial Circuit.

How can we help?

This page provides quick answers to frequently asked questions across different court services. Select a category below to find the information most relevant to your needs.

ADA Assistance

Self-Help

For Attorneys

ADA Assistance FAQ

Learn about accessibility services available at the courthouse, including accommodations, assistive technologies, and how to request ADA support for your visit or hearing.

How do I request an ADA accommodation for a court proceeding?

In Pasco County, please contact the Customer Service Center at (727) 847-2411 or the Risk Management Office at (727) 847-8028. If you are hearing or voice impaired, please call 711. In Pinellas County, you can complete the Electronic ADA Accommodation Request form online.

View ADA Accommodation Request Form for Pinellas County

Is there a cost for disability-related assistance in court?

No. If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled to certain assistance at no cost to you.

When should I submit my request for accommodation?

Accommodation requests should be made at least seven (7) days before your scheduled court appearance. If you receive notification of an appearance less than seven days away, please submit your request immediately upon receiving the notice.

How can I request court documents in an alternative format?

If you require documents or website links in an alternative format due to a disability, please contact the Office of Human Rights to discuss available options and specific requirements.

Contact Office of Human Rights

Self-Help FAQ

Can the Self-Help Center provide me with legal advice?

The Self-Help Center and court staff are available to provide information about court procedures and help you locate the correct forms. However, staff members are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice, tell you what to say in court, or predict the outcome of your case. For legal advice, it is recommended to consult with a member of the Florida Bar.

Do I need a lawyer to file a case?

You are not required to have a lawyer to file a case. However, if you choose to represent yourself, you must follow the same rules and procedures as an attorney.

Where can I find the specific forms and checklists for my case?

Forms and case checklists are available to help you complete your filings correctly. These include locally approved forms and step-by-step checklists for different case types. Some forms may vary between Pasco and Pinellas counties.

Future link to Forms page

How do I prepare for a virtual court hearing?

If your hearing is scheduled online, you should review the virtual hearing guidelines. These include technical requirements, tips for appearing in court remotely, and instructions for submitting documents before your hearing.

Future link to the virtual heading guidelines page or PDF

Are there resources for parents in family law cases?

Yes. If your case involves children, resources are available to help you understand requirements such as parenting plans, required courses, and child support-related forms.

Future link to Forms page

Can I save my progress when filling out court forms?

Some PDF forms may not allow you to save your progress. It is recommended to gather all required information before you begin and complete the form in one session before printing.

For Attorneys FAQ

Find answers related to court procedures, scheduling hearings, submitting proposed orders, and using tools such as JAWS. Review this section for guidance on working within the Sixth Judicial Circuit.

How can I access and use the JAWS portal for scheduling?

The Judicial Automated Workflow System (JAWS) is the primary tool for attorneys in Pasco and Pinellas counties to manage hearing scheduling and submit proposed orders. To use the system, you must be a member of the Florida Bar. Detailed instructions on registration and system navigation can be found on the dedicated JAWS information page.

Visit JAWS information page

Where can I find a judge’s Practice Preferences?

Each judge provides specific procedures and requirements for their cases. You can access these on the Judges or Practice Preferences pages of the website.

Visit our Judges Directory page

Where can I find court calendars and scheduling information?

Court calendars, including judge and division schedules, are available on the Calendars page. These resources help you determine availability and plan filings or hearings.

Visit Calendars page

How can I access court records?

Court records can be accessed online through the Clerk of Court websites for Pasco and Pinellas counties.

Visit Clerk of Court websites for Pasco County

Visit Clerk of Court websites for Pinellas County