Child custody... I cant afford a lawyer, how do I go about it?

[Friend In Court]

Re: Child custody... I cant afford a lawyer, how do I go about it?

I live in New Mexico I have a 11 year old son his father has never really been apart of my sons life cause hes always done drugs. We went to court in October 2012 and he failed a drug test in the court house. So he has no visitation he still never tries to come around.I want to file for full custody but i cant afford a lawyer how do I go about it and what steps do I need to take?

First, has it been established that he is in fact the child's father? If the two of you were not married, has there been a legal determination of paternity?

What did you go to court for in October 12, 2012? Why was he drug tested then? Is there an outstanding custody decree? All these are important. When there is an ongoing file, it is foolhardy for anyone to try to give one advice for what is in the file is critical.

If you cannot afford a lawyer, see Legal Aid for help. If they are unable to help, try your state Bar association for most maintain pro bono panels of experienced lawyers who donate their time to persons who otherwise cannot afford private counsel.

[AFFA]

re: Child custody... I cant afford a lawyer, how do I go about it?

I wish to inform you that court considers best interest of child as main consideration. In this regard child custody can be taken by you and you can file a petition for child custody in court where you can mention details that father cannot take care of child. Further if father does not take interest in child then this fact can be considered by court while awarding you child custody. You can self represent yourself in court.

AFF

[serenaf]

I live in New Mexico I have a 11 year old son his father has never really been apart of my sons life cause hes always done drugs. We went to court in October 2012 and he failed a drug test in the court house. So he has no visitation he still never tries to come around.I want to file for full custody but i cant afford a lawyer how do I go about it and what steps do I need to take?