Are guided interviews safe to use?

Yes. We take multiple steps to protect your privacy and keep your information secure while you complete your court forms.

Security measures we use

Encryption

All information you enter into our guided interviews is encrypted using standard HTTPS SSL encryption. This protects your data from being intercepted by other users on your network or seen while traveling between your computer and our servers.

Access controls

Access to your information is strictly limited to authorized employees of the LIT Lab who work to maintain and improve the system. We only access your responses when necessary to make improvements or at your specific request.

System protection

We use multiple layers of security, including software controls and firewalls, continuous monitoring to detect unauthorized access, and secure (encrypted) storage of saved answers on protected servers.

Your information and accounts

Save your progress

When you use a guided interview, you can create an account and save your progress. This allows you to return later and pick up where you left off without losing your work. Your saved answers are stored securely on our servers.

Delete your information anytime

You have full control over your information. At any time, you can delete all your saved answers from the system. To do this:

1. Look for the Menu dropdown button in the interview
2. Select "Exit and delete my answers"
3. Confirm that you want to delete your information

Once deleted, your information is permanently removed from our servers and cannot be recovered.

Escape button

Some guided interviews include an Escape button. This button immediately takes you to a neutral website (like Google) if you need to quickly leave the interview for safety or privacy reasons. You should still return later to delete your saved answers if needed.

Data privacy

For detailed information about how we collect, use, and protect your data, please see our complete privacy policy and terms of use. Key points include:

• We never sell your data. Your personal information is never shared with third parties for commercial purposes.
• E-filing with courts: When you e-file your forms, we deliver the completed documents to the appropriate court on your behalf.
• Analytics: We use third-party analytics (like Google Analytics) to understand how people use our site and improve it. This information is anonymous and does not identify you personally.
• Research: We may use anonymized data (with all identifying information removed) for research purposes to help improve legal services in Massachusetts.

When guided interviews are not enough

When to get legal help

Guided interviews are a great tool, but they're not a substitute for legal advice. You should consider getting help from a lawyer or legal aid organization if:

• Your case is complex or involves multiple legal issues
• You're facing an opponent with a lawyer
• Your case involves significant money or important assets
• You need help understanding court procedures or deadlines
• You're not sure which form or court is right for your situation

Find legal help in your jurisdiction to connect with lawyers, legal aid organizations, and other resources.

When your physical safety is at risk

Guided interviews are not designed for emergency situations. If you are experiencing:

• Domestic violence or abuse
• Threats or harassment
• Physical assault
• Any other immediate danger

Call 911 or your local emergency number first. Once you are safe, you can work on legal remedies like restraining orders or protective orders. Law enforcement and emergency responders can often help you access emergency legal protections and connect you with safety resources and legal help.

Questions about safety or privacy?

If you have questions about how we protect your information or concerns about data privacy, please contact the Suffolk LIT Lab at:

Suffolk LIT Lab
120 Tremont St
Boston, MA