Q: I was ordered to pay attorney's fees but cannot pay because I have been on disability
The attorney only asked for $5,000 in attorney's fees in court, and court ordered that I pay attorney's fees under C.R.S 13-17-102 when I have been prose and with harsh assumptions with no facts and disregard to my pleadings to include evidence. I am on disability from work and have no income and was the only person that provided a sworn financial. My ex celebrated by buying a new house but claimed he was poor in court and hasn't submitted a sworn financial since 2014. I just received an affidavit of attorney' fee's via email of over $11,000. I am terrified because I have no income, and a new baby, which caused my disability to begin with. I am scared and don't know what to do
A: You need to consult with an attorney quickly. A court can order fees if frivolous or baseless motions are filed or things are done and it does not have to take your disability into account. That being said, there may be steps you can take to lessen the amount, challenge the ruling, etc. The specific facts need to be known by and discussed with an attorney before anyone can tell you your options. If you are truly unable to pay right away you may need to prove that down the road.
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