Q: Do I need a lawyer? Or can I get legal separation / divorce without one?
Married for almost 10 years, we have 3 kids together. There is a history of mental and emotional abuse of me and one of our kids, and sexual coercion of me. He is a chronic liar and manipulator. He does not want divorce or a legal separation but I can't keep living like this. I keep trying to get him to understand that I am done trying to save our marriage and that I don't trust him at all and I'm tired of the mind games. Do I need a lawyer if I file for legal separation? Does he have to agree to the legal separation for that to be files? If not does that mean I have to file for divorce? I can't work because I am the sole caregiver of the kids and medical reasons, he works a commission based job, I'm willing to give him 50/50 custody where he would have the right to make half the decisions and have them (as long as he continues to treat them well) on his days off. Not sure what to do or where to go.. I can't afford a lawyer..
A: You need a lawyer for legal separation, dissolution or divorce. If you file for divorce, you can also file for temporary support and for your spouse to pay your legal fees. Use the Find a Lawyer tab and speak with a few local family law attorneys to find one to work with you. Or check for local law school legal clinics or legal clinics at your local court that offer assistance.
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