Can I take my children’s fathers to court without an attorney?
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Can I take my children’s fathers to court without an attorney?
I cannot afford a lawyer but need to find a way to get child support from both of my children’s fathers. Also, I need a divorce but my husband isn’t willing to cooperate because he doesn’t want to pay support. I’m completely willing to do whatever work needs to be done. I’m just not sure where to start or what my rights are.
Asked on August 30, 2012 under Family Law, Illinois
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Legally, any person may represent herself in court without a lawyer, so you do not need to have an attorney. It is not a good idea, however, to not have a lawyer when so much--child support, which is an income stream for years; also, your divorce--is at stake. If you can't afford a lawyer, try contacting Legal Services: they provide attorneys to people who cannot afford them in many situations. Also try contacting law schools in your area--they may have clinics where students, under the guidance of a professor, provide legal assistance to people who can't afford lawywers.
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