bgirl Posted September 16, 2005 Share Posted September 16, 2005 I can't afford a lawyer, and am trying to divorce without one. We have a five year old child. I paid for and downloaded forms called a "petition for dissolution" "marital settlement" and an "affadavit of consent"- my husband and I filled them out, I filed them yesterday. The clerk of courts gave us each an order to attend a class for divorcing parents. And they told me that I need to file a "divorce decree" and pay 50 more dollars(already paid 100 to file) They will not tell me where to get a decree form, or what it is, just that I need to bring it before a judge during order hour. I don't know how to get the marital settlement we agreed to and filed enforced. I'm afraid I'll have to give in and pay a lawyer, and it will leave me completely broke, when I have a child to take care of. Husband makes a lot more money than I do, but will not help pay, although he also wants the divorce. Does anyone know what these forms are, how to tell if you're doing it right? Link to post Share on other sites
Trimmer Posted September 17, 2005 Share Posted September 17, 2005 Whoa - be very careful here.... Is this his child, or from a previous relationship? What have you done in your settlement with respect to child support and custody issues? If he wanted the divorce, makes a lot more money than you, and won't even contribute to the divorce costs, I have to read between the lines and wonder if he is trying to take you for a ride on child support or custody issues... PLEASE, PLEASE - go to a phone book, look up a family law attorney, call the number, and explain your situation to whoever answers. Tell them your financial situation - they may give you at least a few minutes of information on the phone, or at least a suggestion as to where you might get some advice or pro bono legal help. Also, try your local Legal Aid foundation or equivalent... Please - for your daughter's sake, don't go further until you get yourself educated as to what you might deserve in child support. It sounds like you need an advocate who knows the process. Link to post Share on other sites
cherrysoduh Posted September 17, 2005 Share Posted September 17, 2005 I agree with Trimmer! I know alot of attorneys advertise a free initial consult, so maybe you can check that out and see if you can get some information. If you hubby is the one who wants the divorce than I think he should help pay, but he won't so you need to protect yourself and your daughter and make sure you get the most for your daughter just in case he is pulling something shaddy. I think most attorneys will offer a payment plan, and you may even discuss with an attorney about a court order to make your husband help pay for the D since he makes a more money than you. Just a thought... Link to post Share on other sites
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