Legal Question in Family Law in California

I am a homemaker and have no income, but would like to file for divorce. I met with one attorney, but she charges a $3500 retainer, which I do not have. Credit cards are almost maxed out, so that's not an option. No family or friends with money either. I know women's shelters have legal advisers, but I am not being abused. What are my options to pay for the legal fees, aside from finding a job in this repressed market?


Asked on 1/06/10, 9:40 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

If you and your husband have any assets, including a home with any equity in it, savings, etc., and your husband has income, you should be able to find an attorney who would take the case without a retainer as long as they get an agreement to be paid out of the assets if they are not paid otherwise. They would then bring a motion for your husband to pay the attorneys fees. If your husband's income is not sufficient or you have no assets, you may have to do it yourself. If so, you should pick up a copy of "How to Do Your Own Divorce In California" by Nolo Press, and then get help at the Ventura Superior Court self-help program. The self-help schedule for the Simi Valley court house is at: http://www.ventura.courts.ca.gov/FLshcSched-ecc_JUL2009.pdf

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Answered on 1/12/10, 1:05 pm


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