How do I answer the petition and request my car and maiden name pro-se?

Make an appointment with the Court Facilitator who will help you fill out the paperwork needed.

In Arizona you should prepare something in writing that includes the names of the parties, the case number, and your specific requests, such as your car and your maiden name. This must be signed by you, with an indication that you are mailing a copy of it to his attorney, and delivering or mailing a copy to the judge. You should take the original, and at least three copies to the clerk of the court where the divorce was filed. You will have to pay the respondent's fee, although you may also request a deferral, meaning a payment plan, for that fee. You have to mail the copy to his attorney, and take the judge's copy to his or her office or mail drop. You should at least consult with an experienced family law attorney in your area to discuss this.

File a Response. You can get it at the court.

No, you have to file an Answer. In the answer, you put in the caption, etc . that is shown on the Complaint you got. In answering the Complaint, you should address each paragraph separately. In your prayer for relief you request that the car be given to you and your maiden name be restored.

Get a form package from the family law courthouse. Complete the form called Response. On it you can ask for your maiden name back. The self help Window at the court can also be helpful.

I would suggest you consider filing an answer, there is a Court form, and be very specific with what paragraphs and items you agree or disagree with and get it filed. You can even file and serve a Counter-Petition if you choose. You have a limited time to file an Answer and Counter-Petition. After your answer is filed, consider Mediation. Mediation is Fast, Effective and Affordable. Your spouse will have to agree in order to mediate, but it might be very advantageous to mediate. Good luck.

You need to file with the Court AND serve your ex with what is called an "Answer" to the Complaint for Divorce, wherein you respond to each of the numbered paragraphs in his Complaint for Divorce. As for your car and restoration of your maiden name, you need to make sure both of those things are properly addressed in the "Judgment of Divorce," which is the final document divorcing you, and confirming the division of your assets and debts.