I don't know what to say other than that sucks and I am sorry. Can they refuse services like that? What are your options? I thought you had custody established. It seems doubtful they would pull her out of the home she's has been living in, considering there were allegations against him in the first place. Regardless, I am such it's not a comfort. Hang in there and keep us updated.

Call different lawyers and try and get a lower fee maybe... or go to a legal aid clinic and ask for help.

Eek! I'm so sorry, Mama. I'm SURE he won't get full custody, no matter what. You have been the best possible parent that Alexa could have. Are there any other lawyers you could see? Is there any way you could talk to him and work out a deal? You say there's a $1500 "retainer fee", does that mean his actual services will cost you a good deal more than that? I will look around and see if I can come up with anything for you. In the meantime, you are in my thoughts.

usually the courts will not take a child from a stable home mama. Also he doesn't have any proof that you did anything that would warrent taking alexa away from you. You haven't put your child in any danger. Your a great mother and you shouldn't have to deal with this. I beleive that there are lawyers that do pro bono or low fees or payment arrangments. Please keep us updated.

What a fucking dink. I am sorry, it sounds like he is being utterly ridcuolous. I wish I could help with good resources...but I dont know any from your area.

He has an attorney now, I look bad on paper, especially when they bring in jeremiah (husband, soon to be ex) anyways, I just don't know what to do., Money doesn't grow on trees (wouldn't it be nice tho) the water pump went in my car today, thats gonna cost money, i'm without a car right now, trying to save up $$ to leave a crappy marriage, going to school 3 days a week, need money for program at school to input clinicals, i just am in a bad spot, I want to scream. I haven't been functioning. I laid on the couch all damn day today until right before my ride came to pick me up for school. _____________________________________________________________________________ mama to Alexa 3/25/04 and Blake 9/18/07 "This land is yours and this land is mine What that means is nobody can own the rights "

I'm sorry you're going through this. I would look for a free or sliding scale fee legal services office in your area. Just remember, you will get through this.

I'm sorry he's doing this to you and that things are so hard for you right now. If at all possible, I wouldn't go into this without a lawyer. He'll have an advocate for him and you won't. I don't have anything to suggest that hasn't been suggested already, but definately look into whether you are eligible for legal aid or some sort of pro bono service.

I found this site on google: http://www.jud.state.ct.us/Lawlib/referral.htm I don't know anything about it, but it looks like it might be helpful? *ETA If you scroll down, it looks like they have links to various organizations providing pro-bono legal aid to different groups of people. Maybe one of those will be able to offer what you need.*

Call legal Aid clinics. See if you can find a low income lawyer. I wish I could say that I know how you feel. I have been there but luckily could borrow money to pay my legal fees. (total costing about 10k) However I was more fortunate this last time I had to deal with a suit, and found a low cost lawyer. He is doing 10x the work of my old lawyer at a fraction of the price. If worst comes to worst, you might have to represent yourself in court. Are there any aid programs to walk you through the process step by step? Here in texas we have a program called Texas Advocacy Project that will guide you through the process. Good luck. If you need anything let me know.

I'm sorry to hear you're having a rough time right now, but I agree with the above posters about finding another lawyer even if it's just for a little bit to get you through your court date with him.

today's the 13th- any update?