QUESTION

How do I handle pro se divorce?

Asked on Sep 16th, 2013 on Divorce - Michigan
More details to this question:
I filed for divorce a year and a half ago. I served my husband the summons and petition and he countered back with his answer. We have both tried using attorneys temporarily and now we cannot afford them anymore so we are trying to do the rest pro se. I am getting frustrated because the judge told us that we need to file bankruptcy and attend mediation in order to proceed. I have been waiting for almost 1 year now and he still hasn't turned in his portion to the bankruptcy attorney. In the meantime we have now been sued by two debtors. We have attended mediation numerous times but he makes me pay each time and then does not accomplish anything in the meeting. I am at my wits end and donโ€™t know what to do. I feel that his irresponsibility not to mention all the emotional and physical turmoil he has put us through is now affecting multiple areas. I contacted the court administrator and she says we are to fill out the "Stipulated Facts and Findings." I have filled this out and signed it and he refuses to saying he does not agree with any of it. I don't understand why my husband is dragging this out and I don't know what I am supposed to do. I am now facing the possibility of having wages garnished or being put in jail and this would have all been avoided if he would just do what he is supposed to. Please help me as I need some answers fast. I don't have any more money to find another attorney. I know laws differ from state to state so I hope that helps.
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4 ANSWERS

Bruce Provda
If you are indigent or very low income, you can possibly get a pro-bono attorney from your bar association or from Legal Services. However, the fact that you own a house makes it seem unlikely that you will qualify.
Answered on Sep 18th, 2013 at 2:57 PM

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Jason David Smith
You need legal help. Contrary to popular belief, these things generally cannot be handled by a layperson.
Answered on Sep 18th, 2013 at 2:30 PM

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Domestic Relations Attorney serving Omaha, NE at Diane L. Berger
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I don't know what state you are in or what the laws are in that state. In Nebraska, I would advise you to file a Motion with the Court asking that your husband be required to complete the necessary documentation, or in the alternative, grant your divorce based on the information you have available to you.
Answered on Sep 18th, 2013 at 1:55 PM

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Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI at Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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You need an attorney fast. Without more facts I cannot reach and opinion other than the fact you clearly are having trouble and not proceeding as your desire, and getting in deeper and deeper trouble.
Answered on Sep 18th, 2013 at 1:40 PM

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