(Don't) Fill in the Blank: programs can help utahns access legal services.

• Author: Kinder, Peri

Chances are, if you have an intense in your side, you don't research ((appendectomy" online and perform your own surgery with a paring knife on the kitchen table. But many Utah residents do the legal equivalent of operating on themselves when they try to handle their own court cases or create legal documents from online sources.

While the consequences of performing your own surgery are much more calamitous than filling out your own legal documents, the mistakes caused by do-it-yourself legal representation can have long-lasting and devastating results.

James D. Gilson is the litigation chair at Callister, Nebeker & McCullough and is president elect of the Utah State Bar. He has practiced law for 25 years and has witnessed many people try the DIY legal program, with distressing outcomes. He often wonders why individuals believe they can figure out the legal system without professional help.

"It's probably the perception that they can't afford to hire an attorney" Gilson says. "We're trying to get the word out as a Bar that hiring a real-life Utah lawyer is something people ought to do--that they have value and they should consult with a real lawyer before turning to the internet."

Gilson has seen too many people who have been scammed or have botched their own representation by not contacting an attorney. And while the cost can be intimidating, he believes the self-help clients will cause escalating trouble for themselves, until they finally realize they need to hire professional help.

"People go to a licensed, trained doctor when they have a health issue. But if you have a significant legal issue like a divorce or a business contract dispute, or you're facing a criminal charge, by the same logic, one should seek advice from a trained professional:' And people who represent themselves often get taken advantage of, or end up settling for much less than they were entitled to. "The other side has an attorney representing them, and if you don't, you're going against a trained lawyer, and the odds are stacked against you," says Gilson.

The Utah State Bar is out to educate the public about accessing legal services. It has found the average person is intimidated by the court system, worried about prohibitive legal costs and unaware of the programs available that can minimize the costs of talking with an attorney.

Pro Bono Assistance

The Utah State Bar offers several programs for low-income people, including free legal assistance. In fact, attorneys are encouraged to perform at...