LEAF University · Level 1 · Module 1
A firm foundation.
Begin with the essentials, one step at a time. Complete each checkpoint to unlock the next lesson. “I’m unsure” is a valid answer and gives you something to verify.
General legal education, not legal advice. This module does not determine a legal response or extend any deadline.
A date needs attention? You can find court resources and legal help now without completing the lessons. This course never determines whether a claim is valid.
Document text review is available at any time. Paste text or select a .txt file to highlight information to check.
0 of 5 steps worked through
Step 1 of 5
Listen and read
Take a breath. Read every page, including the back of each page and attachments. Keep the envelope and note when and how the paper arrived.
Step 2 of 5
Identify
Locate the court name, location, case number, and names of the parties. A summons, complaint, notice, and order can serve different purposes. Record the actual wording rather than guessing.
Step 3 of 5
Verify
Look separately for a hearing date and instructions about responding. They may be different. This module does not calculate deadlines. Confirm applicable instructions with the exact court or qualified legal help.
Step 4 of 5
Organize
Create a dated timeline and gather the papers, attachments, related correspondence, and proof of delivery. Write down questions you cannot answer yet.
Step 5 of 5
Explore next steps and preserve
Use official resources to investigate applicable filing, service, fees, fee waivers, and accommodation procedures. Save copies and any confirmation of steps you take. Seek help promptly if a date is near or unclear.
Check your understanding
Does a hearing date always tell you when a written response is due?
Private browser text review · Trial
Notice information that needs attention.
Select a plain-text (.txt) document or paste its text. This trial searches for words and passages; it is not AI analysis, does not read scanned images or PDFs, and can miss information. Results refer to text lines, not original page numbers.
The text stays in this browser tab. This tool does not send your document to LEAF or save it to an account. Clear your session when finished. Your original file remains on your device.
Explore a verified resource path
These are examples, not a limit on the guide. You can work through the foundations for any U.S. state, territory, or federal court; applicable procedures must be verified locally. Find the exact court's official website and procedural resources through U.S. Courts, Michigan Courts, or Florida Courts. For civil legal assistance, find a legal aid organization. Availability and eligibility vary.
Questions to investigate: What does this document require? Where are the applicable instructions? Are attachments complete? What help is available for fees or accessibility?
Your worksheet and review are temporary. Print or save anything you want to keep before clearing the session or closing this page.