I am in desperate need of an attorney to help me file for full custody for my two daughters but I cannot afford the upfront $500-$700 fee that they all want to start the case. We already have an original court custody agreement where I get them every other weekend. They are in a horrid situation and their mother hs even been reported to SS and want take them to school on a regular basis. Does anyone know how I can find a lawyer near my city and state (Rocky Mount, NC) that will let me make payments or something like that? Please dont think that I cannot afford to take care of my daughters because I can and it will be even easier when the $700 a month child support payments (that support her drug and alcohol habit) would end. If I go get the paperwork for a change of custody (or whatever its called) and file it myself, I still have to go through the mandatory family mediation and then go to court. So, this would give me time to save for a lawyer. But how do I do this? Where do I get the paperwork? Do I stand a chance if she comes to mediation with a lawer even if he's inexperienced and cheap when I dont have one at all? I hate going forth without a lawyer but this may be my only option.How do I get help with filing for full custody in NC?Without knowing the intimate details of your situation. I cannot adequately answer your question. However, I am an NC lawyer and the firm I work with may be able to assist you in this matter. We can have a consult. Our firm does not charge for initial consultations. So, feel free to give us a call. The Peterkin Law Firm 919-233-7457 and you can discuss your situation with one of our attorneys.How do I get help with filing for full custody in NC?Yes I know. Ever know a poor attorney? Me neither. The legal system is absolutely guaranteed to keep those guys rich, I promise you.
About all you can do is google your state + family court + free legal advise, and see what you come up with.
It's the same for every state... attorneys everywhere.How do I get help with filing for full custody in NC?How the hell can she afford a lawyer if shes a druggie and an alcoholic?
Community Legal Services should be able to help you out.How do I get help with filing for full custody in NC?Contrary to popular belief, there are good-hearted attorneys out there who will work with you on payments. I found one for my divorce/custody case and now I work for another. My best advice is to get a lawyer, and to find one that will work with you, pick up the yellow pages and start calling. Don't limit yourself to your county either, check your surrounding counties. If one that you call doesn't accept payments, ask if they know someone who does.
You can also start with DSS. Tell them that you are aware that they have a file on your ex and that you would like to petition for custody to get them out of that situation and see what they tell you. They may remove the girls from the home and place them with you, thus negating the need for a custody fight.
If all else fails, the clerk of court has the paperwork to file any motions or petitions. But be warned that the clerk cannot help you fill them out; that constitutes practicing law, something that the clerk cannot do.
Start with DSS.
