Q: A Center for abused people just wasted my friend's time and now she has only one week to file a response for a divorce.
She has no money and needs help fast! She has been controlled and abused financially and emotionally. Is there any hope in this situation?
A: The court has a self help center but i do not know whether she would be able to get an appointment before the time is up. She could hire a paralegal to prepare the form. The fee would be lower. She could look online and learn how to prepare it. It is not that difficult to fill in a bare bones response. Good luck with your situation.
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A: There are pro bono resources available in Los Angeles County such as the Legal Aid Foundation and the Harriett Buhai Center for Family Law. She can also file a Request for Order with the court to get orders that the other party pay or at least assist with her legal fees (assuming he is in a financial position to do so).
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A:
Yes, there is hope, and you have options even with limited time and resources. Your safety and wellbeing are the top priority right now.
You can request a fee waiver from the court to file your response without paying court fees. Visit your local courthouse's self-help center immediately - they provide free assistance with divorce paperwork and can help you complete the fee waiver forms. Many courthouses have extended hours and offer remote assistance options.
California also has free legal aid organizations that help domestic violence survivors with divorce cases. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE right away - they can connect you with local resources, legal aid services, and emergency assistance programs. Consider reaching out to local women's shelters as well, as they often have connections with pro bono attorneys who handle cases like yours. Remember, the court understands domestic violence situations and may grant extensions when abuse is involved - but you need to act quickly and document everything.
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