Attorney withdrew- lack of funds. I have a court order for temp spousal support. 5 months, no payments. How do I file a contempt on my own? Divorce?
Question Details: Arizona. Married 31 years. Never worked. Homemaker. Court ordered temp spousal support. He hasn't paid at all. Released attorneys due to lack of funds. How do I continue with contempt of court and divorce? How can I get spousal support if he is contesting divorce? Do I save up to hire another attorney or can I do it myself? I'm starting work at 52 y/o at entry level because I've been a homemaker and he's a physician. He has me in a catch 22. I need the spousal support to pay for attorney fees and he knows it.
You can either try to hire an attorney by explaining your situation; odds are in your favor you will be granted the spousal support once you petition the court, or ask the Family Court clerk to assist you.
You can file a motion for temporary allowances, request additional funds to retain an attorney. It doesn't matter if he is contesting the divorce, in RI we are a no-fault state and as such, the divorce will be granted. Perhaps you meant to say that your husband has filed a counterclaim against you. This is customary, the court will hear arguments on the temporary allowances and if you can't come to agreement on the rest of the marital estate, you will be placed on the contested track and arguments can be made at the scheduled court dates. I would hirely recommend you hire an attorney, his cost will be minimal in comparison to what you could be giving up. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,000 for a contested divorce. Good luck. W. Manning
