Q: My ex and I had settled for 50/50 custody last year, however since then my ex hasn't tried to comply to this order.
My ex has been homeless and on drugs , charged with domestic violence, has offered no financial assistance for his kids, and has caused a lot of emotional turmoil with kids and our currently family environment. I have tried to be supportive and have bent over backwards to make it easy and convenient for him to see his kids (for the sake of the kids). Im fed up with his lack of consideration of his kids feelings and care and am looking to file for 100% sole custody with child support (even though I won't see a dime cus he refuses to get a job and get his act together)... I haven't had a lawyer before, can't really afford one, should I look into one or go about it myself?
A:
My general advice is to hire an attorney, but the reality of the situation is this: if the facts are as bad as you allege, and you can back that up with evidence, then you probably have a case you can prosecute on your own for sole custody.
Contact your local courthouse's self-help center for copies of the forms you'll need to file. Some local public law libraries hold classes or workshops on how to file paperwork and prepare for hearings.
Another option: Some attorneys (like me) also do limited scope representation, where they'll help with a specific portion of your suit. This could mean filing your pleadings, but not appearing in court, or just appearing in court, or whatever worked for your needs and budget. So that may be the best way to get attorney help on your budget.
Good luck.
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