Can I get custody of my child without a lawyer?

[mellem87]

I live in Illinois and my husband is in the Armed Services. He took off in the summer of 2008 and left me with no money and a young child. After not seeing his son for 10 months he is now back in the state because he has been stationed here and has filed for sole custody of our child and wants me to pay him child support and maint. Hes going it to get back at me for filing for child support 6 months ago. He never paid what he was supposed to and as a result had thousands stashed away and used that money to hire a really good attorney. I cannot afford one, so if I go to court and its me vs. his attorney, am I going to lose by default?

 

[Anna E]

You need to find a way to get an attorney or he could wipe the floor with you. I know that he left you and didn't pay child support, and if you are able to support the child he shouldn't be able to get custody, but it will all depend on the judge that hears the case. You never go to court without an attorney if the other party has one. You can usually consult with an attorney for free. See if they will accept payments and have the hearing postponed until you get them paid.