Legal Question in Family Law in California
Do I need a lawyer?
I have been separated since 8/05 and want to file for divorce. I have been thinking about hiring a lawyer however don't know if I really need to or if I can do it on my own. My soon to be ex husband and I have a visitation agreeement (verbal) and he has been consistent in paying me child support . However I have some concerns because he is now living with someone and this person as well as my ex consume alcohol when my daughter is visiting. My daughter has also reported that she has been in a vehicle driven by a 15 year old unlicensed driver in a car full of otteens. In addition my ex has moved to this persons house which only has two rooms and plans to have my daughter share one room with her 6 year old son. My daughter is ten. I feel that this is very inappropriate and have because of these reasons been unable to communicate effectively with my ex (I get mad and yell). If I pursue this divorce on my own how could I address these issues? Would the court mandate mediation so that we have a parenting plan, do I request one?If I tell my ex that he cannot take my daughter overnight would I be doing something wrong? I don't want to deny him seeing her but I am also concerned for her safety. He would see her but no spending overnight.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Do I need a lawyer?
You should get an attorney because you have some very important issues involved here and they don't have to know you're consulting with an attorney unless you want them to know.
Re: Do I need a lawyer?
An attorney experienced in presenting evidence to the court can be critical to a favorable outcome. Mediaton will be ordered. However, you want the judge to resolve the issues not the mediator. 19 years experience. Call me directly.