Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Your answer screams out that you are way in over your head. Neither the Court, nor the mediator, are going to represent you. If you do not timely file an answer, her attorney may seek a default.

In Florida, with family law cases, depending on the parties' comparative financial resources, the Courts have the discretion to hold one party responsible for all, or part, of the other's attorney fees and costs. In other words, if the other party has significantly stronger financial resources, while you will still have to pay the retainer, do not assume that you will not be able to afford to retain an attorney. Reimbursement can be sought.

If there are minor children involved, and/or substantial assets (money, real property, retirement accounts, ect....), you will be a fool to proceed without an attorney. This caveat also applies if she is seeking alimony. Do what you have to, because if you proceed without the assistance of counsel, you will not be entitled to a �do over� if things go badly.

If you can't retain an attorney, then Google Florida Family Law Forms. The FL Supreme Court has a self help section with some forms.

Elliot Jay Goldstein

Tampa Location:

Law Offices of Elliot Jay Goldstein, P.A.

550 N. Reo St., Ste. 300

Tampa, FL 33609

Tele. No.: 813/810-1500

Pinellas Location:

Law Offices of Elliot Jay Goldstein, P.A.

1014 Ohio Ave., Ste. B

Palm Harbor, FL 34683

Tele. No.: 727/455-6596

The mediator does not "take over". If you are representing yourself you must comply with court procedure, no exceptions. You should get a lawyer. I can do a payment plan, contact my office 727-446-7659