My husband was physically abusive to me and often yelled at our one year old daughter. My parents lived in MI and said that if I needed to that I could go out to Mi for a visit to clear my head. I decided to leave -before- he started to beat the crap out of me. I never called the police because I always felt like his hitting me was my fault... stupid? yeah... but I was 18/19. Now he has filed for custody. Threw it at me out of the blue. Friday I as served with papers and had to be back in CA TODAY for the court hearing. I had to go in with no lawyer. Fortuantly the judge granted tempary physical custody to me but said that I have to live in CA until the next court hearing---next monday. I need a lawyer. I need one -now-. But I have absolutly no money. My husband hasn't been supporting my daughter and I, which is fine since I left him, but he didn't let me work when we were together either. So if anyone knows of a lawyer who would let me make payments or is VERY low cost PLEASE tell me.
2007-04-16 10:23:20 · 2 answers · asked by Phae2007 1 in Family & Relationships ➔ Marriage & Divorce
Ok, first you dont really need a lawyer here or if you still want one contact the local legal aid assoc. for free help. Chances are you will be awarded custody as the courts want kids to stay with their mom unless ruled unfit. You dont have to prove youre a better parent so dont get into a arguement with him. Dont accuse him of anything that you cant back up with real evidence and not hearsay. Allyou need to do is answer the Judges questions, volunteer nothing. Since hes trying for custody, he has all the "proving" to do. Once you get custody, ask the judge for permission to relocate to MI with your daughter but be prepared to make compromises in visitations with dad to keep her. It wont be easy but its all you got. An attorney will probably do exactly what I told you to do so its up to you if you think you really need one. Good luck
2007-04-16 11:12:30 · answer #1 · answered by Arthur W 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would advise you to seek legal counsel immediately. Unfortunately, although judges rule in favor of the mothers the majority of the times, it isn't always the case, in fact it is becoming more common of just the opposite. My recommendation is to find an attorney and fast. There are tons of lawyers that take payment plans for mothers in your situation because it is very common. In fact, my sister went to court and the lady that represented my sister took a payment plan. The most important thing for you right now is getting custody of your kid no matter what the cost is. Whatever you do, don't walk into court and think because you are a mother you will get full custody!!!! To say you would, would be the worst advice anyone could give you. I have attached a link below. Search for this "California Child Custody Payment Plan" Call a few lawyers immediately and get set-up with a consultation. It will be the best decision you ever make...TRUST ME... Link below
2007-04-16 20:38:12 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋