Legal Question in Family Law in Florida
Hello,
My daughter has been with my mom for the past 10 yrs. I was very young when I had her and was very naive as well. I have tried many times over the years to go and get my daughter. My mother either moves or changes her number, or just avoids me altogether. I can't even go up to her house because she has a large dog in the yard. Many people have told me to just "go get her." Well, it is not that easy or I would've done it a long time ago. I conatcted the police to help me out, but they said that they need a court order to remove a child, especially since it has been 10 yrs as well. I tried to get a court order from the courthouse. I filled out 2 forms that were, "emergency motion to pick up a child." They were denied. Then I filled out a regular "motion to pick up a minor child." The judge came back and said that this needed to go to court. I am also now married and have 2 other children as well. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about my daughter. I cry almost every night. My question is how do I start this journey....what forms do I need to file to start a court case and take my mom to court? Also, do I stand a chance of getting my daughter back? I don't think I have the type of money to afford a lawyer but I have searched all over for a lawyer that would take a Pro bono case because legal aid keeps giving me the runaround. Could I take this court for myself and represent myself? What are my chances of winning? Please help...I really don't know what to do at this point.
By the way, my mom lives in Tampa. I live in Naples, and I wouldn't even know where to file this at as well.
Thank you.
1 Answer from Attorneys
You will need to hire an attorney to represent you in this matter. This is too complicated for the every day person to do. If you can not afford an attorney, then you need to apply to the legal aid offices in your area. If this is not acceptable, then look for an attorney who will take payments. With this economy, I am sure you will find one. Call the lawyer referral service and they can find one for you.