I am going to need to look into ... well definitley get a lawyer. My horrible awful ex wants to take my kids age 4 and 5 that he hasnt seen in 3 years!! I am a wonderful mother to them and I have to fight this he is a horrible abusive man. So my question is about lawyer fees if you have any experience on retainer fees hourly cost or total cost. I need to start saving right away for this cost and I need to know what to expect. Thanks 4 your help
2007-04-26 19:25:22 · 6 answers · asked by *Krista* 2 in Family & Relationships ➔ Marriage & Divorce
An arm and a leg
2007-04-26 19:28:57 · answer #1 · answered by Benchwarmer 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First, I would head right down to your local county court house and seek to obtain legal sole (or joint) custody as full guardian of your children. Now, I mention 'joint' because it is better to be pragmatic.
Next, start saving everything you can...it doesn't matter at this point how much you should save, since you NEED to get a lawyer, regarless. I don't know where you live and lawyers are different in their fees, depending on a variety of factors. One factor is EXPERIENCE. You get what you pay for, OK? You should look, you can do this online, for a lawyer that is experienced in divorce and child custody proceedings. I am under the assumption that you have already been through a divorce? I'm not sure, since you didn't mention that you had a lawyer before...only that you ex was your 'ex.'
You should not discuss ANYTHING with your ex. You don't need to. Anything that you say can potentially be used or misconstrude against you. You should not look to totally isolate the father from his children...unless he is abusive. It is only fair. A judge usually favors someone who is trying to be fair. Your lawyer may advise you in this direction.
Look for a lawyer who has experience, who is a mentor, who seems to have a head on their shoulders. Don't go for a lawyer who is 'cheap' but don't get taken for a ride. I do know that these things, if they get messy can be terribly expensive...but when you discuss things with several legal candidates you can explain your situtation...and MOST know that people want to get out of their issues as economically feasible as possible...but you must express this.
I wish you the BEST of luck. As well, your children. Off hand, I seriously recommend that you look into your school system, why your children would benefit living with you and get friends and relatives that will stand by your side. Your children will also benefit from a "Banana Splits" program; mine have.
Oh, and depending on your situation...you may be able to see if you can seek to get your ex to pay for these proceedings (ask the lawyer--it may depend on the State)--especially if he deserted you and the children.
2007-04-26 19:39:28 · answer #2 · answered by What, what, what?? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are in a financial bind, you can contact a legal aid attorney. Call the district Attorney's office in your community, and ask fif they can help you locate a legal aid attorney. If you are not, the prices vary tremendously, depending on the firm.
I would not hire an attorney until I knew exactly what he/she has done for others. Some attorneys will take your money and do nothing. Others will go out of the way to plead your case. Be sure to ask around for info.
Unfortunately, however, he may be able to get joint custody or at least visitation. Tell your attorney that if this happens you would like supervised visitation until the children get to know him and adjust to the situation. Also, be sure to ask for back child support.
I can not believe that he would upset these children's lives after 3 years of neglect. I sure hope that the judge sees it the same way. Best of luck!!!
2007-04-26 20:01:56 · answer #3 · answered by PEGGY S 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are in a pinch, you can do a few different things. First, you can contact legal aid and or I would call around to some family law attorneys and find out if they will set you up on a payment plan. Many times these attorneys are willing to work with you if you don't have the upfront cash. Perhaps a monthly payment plan wouldn't give you the big hit in your pocket upfront.
2007-04-27 06:17:20 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Here is an excellent site with some good options 4 U.
2007-04-27 07:04:32 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try targetlaw.com and search for a good child custody lawyer. Read the website and see if it resonates with your case.
2007-04-27 14:06:26 · answer #6 · answered by Rudai B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋