I have a psychiatric disability and cannot testify in court. Neither can I afford an attorney. My wife has served me with divorce papers. How should I respond to the court?
2006-10-31 08:06:32 · 7 answers · asked by Tertium Quid 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Look for a local legal aid society in the Internet yellow pages in your area. They are in all major cities and provide legal assistance for civil matter to persons who can not afford to pay.
2006-10-31 08:16:26 · answer #1 · answered by Andreas 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The criminal courts have held for years that the right to a fair trial requires the state to pay for an attorney to represent an indigent defendant. However, *most* civil proceedings do not make any such requirement.
Some proceedings which greatly affect a person's rights, such as civil commitment proceeding, or a proceeding to terminate parental reights, often result in the appointment of a free attorney, but those are the exception, not the rule.
You might want to look into the Legal Aid Society. They provide low and no cost legal representation for the indigent. However, whether you will meet their criteria for assistance I don't know. You can also see if there is a law clinic operated by a law school Most law schools operate a legal clinic, staffed by 3rd year law students. These students assist the indigent with their legal problems under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
Good luck. If all else fails, you need to consult relatives and hire an attorney to assist you. Contact your local or state bar association for a referral.
2006-10-31 09:26:05 · answer #2 · answered by Phil R 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you can't afford an attorney, the courts will appoint you one whether you are disabled or not, but that's only if you are charged with a felony.
Divorce falls under civil law. You might be able to find an attorney that will take the case for free, but with a psychiatric problem it probably will be very difficult.
2006-10-31 08:10:27 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Civil courts aren't required to provide you with representation. Many attorneys offer a free initial consultation, you could check your yellow pages for one that will meet with you and go over the divorce papers with you and let you know their opinion on your situation. Most won't take a case for free, but some will take the case and receive payment from a percentage of any settlement. Good luck.
2006-10-31 08:15:50 · answer #4 · answered by Katasha 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
since it is court ordered he has to pay or consequences will follow. However, I am not very clear about child support laws therefore your best bet would be to call a local attorney that you could find from a yellow pages to see what options you have. Hope everything turns out for the better!
2016-05-22 19:32:46 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there is nothing the courts can do for you to obtain a free lawyer
try your local legal aide via yellow pages or google
let her pay 100% for the divorce, you just cant contest anything
2006-10-31 08:15:00 · answer #6 · answered by Mopar Muscle Gal 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would consult with an Attorney in your State. If you can't afford one, please contact me. I can provide you access to an entire Law Firm in your State at an affordable rate. You will get 24hour access to an Attorney and it will cover your entire family. Please let me know if I can be of service.
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2006-11-03 07:23:14 · answer #7 · answered by bearh24 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋