It sounds like you need a continuance and wish to request one. The best place to start would the local rules and rules of civil procedure. Read those. Follow what they state. And also if you are looking at retaining counsel, you want to arrange a consult now and that attorney licensed in your state may be able to get a continuance for you or guide you on a continuance. The court may or may not approve a continuance so that you can search for counsel at this juncture.