Legal Question in Family Law in Tennessee

divorce counter suit

husband deserted me 2yrs ago, he has filed for divorce stating I'm guilty of inappropiate marital conduct towards the plaintiff that renders cohabitation unsafe and improper (which is backwards) He wants property and debt split equitably. I was the one abused and left in a burned out trailer with no money & not emotionally able to work. He took my money I got from my fathers estate & wrecked my father's truck, leaving me with nothing. Now I want financial support. My mother has been taking care of me and she shouldn't have to. I dont have any money to counter sue but can I argue my case to the judge or do I have to get an attorney?


Asked on 4/12/07, 4:52 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Marc Reisman Rosenblum & Reisman, P.C.

Re: divorce counter suit

I would urge you to try to find legal counsel. Alleging inappropriate marital conduct is probably just a formaility on his part. Again, I say "probably" only because I do not know the facts of your case. Depending on the length of the marriage and many other factors, you may have a right to spousal support and you really should have an attorney assist you along the way. Many counties have free or reduced priced legal services available to abused spouses and you might want to look into that. Your husband's lawyer will likely try to get a default judgment against you when 30 days pass from your being served so don't let that happen. I assure you, you must participate in the process to protect your rights and the best way to participate is with a lawyer. You/your lawyer need(s) to answer the complaint and file your complaint with the court within 30 days of service. That woud be a good time to consider a counter-complaint for divorce. Best of luck to you and please get a lawyer to help you through this.

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Answered on 4/12/07, 5:03 pm


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