Legal Matters

How do I get a marriage license?
Apply for one at the Cass County Treasurer's Office, which is located in the Cass County Courthouse, 211 9th Street South in Fargo. To learn more, visit Cass County Treasurer or call 701.241.5611.

How do I get a copy of a birth or death certificate?
Contact the North Dakota Division of Vital Records in Bismarck at 701.328.2360.

I received a letter stating I’ve won a prize in a lottery or contest. How do I know if this is legitimate?
If you don’t remember entering the lottery or contest that contacted you, it is probably a scam. If you were to win a legitimate lottery, the organizers should be able to send your winnings, or instruct you on how to claim them, without asking you to reveal any personal information. Any attempt to acquire your date of birth, social security number, bank name, routing numbers or account numbers is highly suspicious; do not provide this information over the phone, online or through the mail. Legitimate lotteries also do not ask you to send a deposit or any other type of funds before you are to receive your winnings.

I think my landlord is treating me unfairly; how do I get help with my problem?
You may wish to consult with an attorney to discuss your situation. For a listing of attorneys, visit the State Bar Association of North Dakota online or call 1.800.472.2685. The bar association's services include a reduced fee program for some lower-income clients. Legal Services of North Dakota also offers legal assistance to low-income and elderly citizens. You can contact the nonprofit at 1.800.634.5263. You may also want to check the North Dakota Apartment Association's Landlord/Tenant Rights page. If the issue is one of health and safety you can contact the City of Fargo Inspections Department and speak with a Rental Housing Inspector.

I need legal advice in a non-criminal matter, but I can't afford a private attorney; who can help me?
The State Bar Association of North Dakota offers a reduced fee program for some lower-income clients; you can reach the association at call 1.800.472.2685. Legal Services of North Dakota also offers legal assistance to low-income and elderly citizens. You can contact this nonprofit agency at 1.800.634.5263.