My husband bought a NEW truck without consulting me. He came home with a truck and a $860/month payment for the next 5 years. We bring in $4400/month. Our mortgage is $900/month, and my car payment is $320 with one year left. We pay $500/week for daycare for our child, which takes up HALF of our monthly income. After paying the mortgage, the truck payment, my car payment, and daycare, we’ll have only $330 a month left for other bills. “We’ll be fine,” he says, but I lost my temper. Then he suggested I get a second job if I’m so worried. I’m close to graduating with my BSN and can’t handle two full-time jobs and full-time school for a truck he bought without my consent.
We can’t survive on $330/month or pay our other bills like water, gas (diesel for his new truck), electric, and food. We won’t have anything saved for emergencies. I’m angry; this is incredibly irresponsible. I can’t leave; I won’t find a place to rent for less than $900/month, and this is my home. I can’t afford the mortgage and other bills alone. I’m just a NA right now, bringing home only $1800/month. I couldn’t afford a lawyer anyway.
Update: I’m overwhelmed by the advice here. He won’t return the truck, and we had another argument about it. I graduate in December with a job offer from the hospital where I work. He claims he took a chance on a great offer because our financial situation will improve, but I’ve had enough. We can’t survive six months with nothing. $500/week is cheap daycare where we live, and it’s a reputable one; I won’t leave my child in an untrustworthy daycare. I won’t quit my job to stay home so he can have a truck. The hospital is helping pay my tuition, and I enjoy my job. I won’t be jobless and dependent on a man. He hasn’t had any head injuries or known mental issues.
If you find yourself unable to afford a divorce attorney, there are several options you can explore to navigate the legal process:
Legal Aid Services: Many communities offer legal aid services or pro bono programs that provide free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford private attorneys. Contact your local legal aid office or bar association to inquire about available resources.
Self-Representation (Pro Se): You have the right to represent yourself in court proceedings, known as pro se representation. While this option requires thorough research and preparation, there are numerous online resources, self-help guides, and court forms available to assist self-represented individuals.
Unbundled Legal Services: Some attorneys offer unbundled legal services, where you can hire them to handle specific aspects of your case, such as document preparation or legal advice, rather than full representation. This option may be more affordable than hiring an attorney for the entire divorce process.
Mediation or Collaborative Divorce: Consider alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation or collaborative divorce. These processes involve working with a neutral third party to reach agreements on divorce-related issues outside of court, potentially reducing legal costs.
Divorce Clinics or Workshops: Many communities host divorce clinics or workshops where individuals can receive legal information and guidance from volunteer attorneys or legal professionals. These events may offer free consultations or low-cost services.
Payment Plans or Sliding Scale Fees: Some attorneys may be willing to offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on your financial situation. It’s worth contacting attorneys in your area to inquire about their fee structures and payment options.
Court Fee Waivers: In some jurisdictions, individuals with financial hardship may be eligible for fee waivers for court filing fees associated with divorce proceedings. Check with your local court clerk’s office to see if you qualify for fee waivers.
Legal Clinics or Law School Programs: Law schools and legal clinics may offer free or low-cost legal services through student-run programs under the supervision of licensed attorneys. These programs can provide valuable legal assistance while also providing hands-on training for law students.
Regardless of your financial situation, it’s essential to explore all available resources and options for obtaining legal assistance during the divorce process. Consider reaching out to local legal aid organizations, bar associations, or court self-help centers for guidance on navigating divorce proceedings without an attorney.
Some areas offer legal aid to low-income folks, or maybe your local bar association can connect you with reduced-cost options. Even if you can’t swing a full-time lawyer, some will do consultations to get you on the right track. If things are amicable with your soon-to-be-ex, consider mediation which is cheaper and helps you both reach agreements. Remember, knowledge is power, so research your state’s divorce laws online there can find resources to help you through this.