Dealing with a divorce can be an overwhelming and time-consuming process in itself. The last thing you want to worry about is paying the expensive price that most attorneys may charge to represent you. Fortunately, there are many different options you can pursue if hiring a lawyer is too financially challenging for you.
What if I Can’t Afford a Lawyer for Custody?
You may be familiar with a law that states people charged with a crime have the right to a free attorney, but unfortunately, not everyone is legally entitled to a free Orlando family law attorney. Luckily, there are still ways you can earn the legal help you need at an affordable price. Options like federally funded programs, pro bono legal programs, and law school clinics are just some of the ways you can find a lawyer either for free at a reasonable price, to represent you during your custody case.
Visit a Nonprofit or Charity Organization
Research online, call around, or talk with community members to determine if there are any nonprofits or other fundraising organizations in your area with a legal team on their staff. Some of these legal assistants or lawyers may dedicate a significant portion of their time to representing clients at a low cost. Even if these lawyers are unable to help you at the moment, they may have legal connections in their network who could assist you with your case instead.
Reach Out to Your Local Courthouse
There are certain courts who offer free guidance and assistance to people during divorce cases if they’re unable to afford lawyers, some may even offer child psychologist support for the kids during their parent’s divorce. Look up the number for your local courthouse and give them a call asking if they have any support they can offer you. This support can be in a form of couples counseling. If you ask them what they recommend you do since you can’t afford legal help, they may have valuable suggestions and advice to steer you in the right direction.
Check Out a Bar Association Near You
Similar to courthouses, many local bar associations have facilitators you can speak with that will help process your legal claims. Research some online and reach out to them to learn which services they have available for you. They’re able to provide you with basic legal information like how and where to file your legal paperwork.
Consider a Federal Grant or Funded Program
There are several legal service offices that provide federal grants or free legal help to those with incomes that are lower than a specific amount. The income number varies among different legal grants and programs. Some programs also take your assets into consideration when determining your financial worth as well to make the final decision regarding whether you qualify. Research these federal grants and legal services available to you online.
Talk with Students Enrolled in Law School Programs
Many law schools have students who have received a reasonable amount of training and are able to provide you with free legal advice. Certain schools also offer programs where you can hire these students to assist you in your case for a significantly discounted fee. Look and see if there are any law schools in your area and give them a call to see if they offer any of these programs.
Get a Free Consultation From a Lawyer
Though lawyers often charge fees for their assistance in court, almost all of them provide free consultations. This gives you a chance to meet with them in person to learn more details regarding what to expect in your court case and what you need to do to prepare for it. If you explain your financial situation to lawyers, they may be able to offer you a discounted price for their services. Some may even have advice on affordable legal options or they may put you in touch with their colleagues who charge cheaper fees.
Conclusion
Experiencing a divorce is tough on you and your family. When you’re trying out these avenues mentioned above, look for a lawyer who has at least a basic knowledge of divorce and family law before investing in them. This ensures you walk away with a settlement that works best for you and your family.
Emily A. Konicek brings 14 years of experience to your family law concerns. Emily excels at mediation, negotiation and litigation, and can help you pursue a course of action that helps you meet your goals for the future and for your family.
