My ex husband abused me multiple times, when I left him he "kept" my young child only allowing me to see him a couple of times since then. Its been almost a month.
The court date for the orders is coming up in a few weeks, and I am considering representing myself as I cannot afford a lawyer, and legal aid will not be approved in time for the hearing.
It would seem like he doesnt have a leg to stand on given his conduct but who knows in family court and he has legal representation.
Has anyone represented themselves in family court, and got the outcome they were hoping for? I'm not going in blind, I have all my evidence, all my affidavits done, all my ducks are in a row, and I know I can conduct myself well enough to represent myself.
If anyone has done it, and can provide some advice or insight to things I might need to know, that would be great. Thanks
Advice - Representing yourself in family court
Advice - Representing yourself in family court
Posted in:
Relationships & Marriage, Baby & Toddler, Kids
4 Replies
I have no doubt your capable - but it will be a super stressful. I would consider how you will cope and respond under pressure over such an emotional topic! Good luck mumma
I would be trying to get a lawyer, borrow money or sell something. Custody is not something to take lightly and think you can do it yourself in court. A lawyer would have done this 1000 times and will know what to do and say. A close friend of mine represented herself in court the same way you are and it ended terribly. Maybe try legal aide again and see if there is any way they can speed things up, surely they have things in place for urgent circumstances when you look at how many people end up in court the next day after major crimes. Try and try again.
OP here. I got quoted $65,000 for start to end costs. I dont even have $100 to my name at the moment due to having to start over wuth basically the clothes on my back :(
It is a big expense but you may possibly be able to make a payment plan with a lawyer. The upfront cost to start may be an issue though. I used a family lawyer and needed to deposit a figure into a trust account. After that I was able to pay off my accounts at my own pace (to some degree). Best of luck.