Ive been a single parent for all my sons life really, but more so for the past 2 years. His father and I were never married. I dont know how all the legal stuff works. We have never been to court for anything. He hasnt had any contact with Jake for months now, and likely wont for some time to come. I unfortunately picked someone who doesnt mind going to jail for the father of my child. So he is in jail now, might go to prison, might go to a rehab program. I have no idea. Frankly I couldnt care less.....as lond as he isnt bothering us, we are much better off.

Do I really need to go to court and get it in writing that I have full custody. I have control over his visitation as per our agreement, but nothing was ever done in court. Child support isnt really an issue, since its uncollectable now and most likely whenever he gets out and back to work as well.

Jake has his last name. Lately has been saying his name as mine instead. I have been thinking of trying to hypenate his. What kind of problems could that make? I dont think his dad would protest to it, at least not too much. It was always my intention for us to have the same name, we are engaged when I got pregnant, but never made it to real thing...thank god! LOL

Has anyone filed bankruptcy before? I have no idea how to do it either. That is the only way Ill be able to get out of the debt Im in.

Finally 2 years later am I strong enough to try and make it all legal and such, I just dont know how....

Thanks for sticking around so long to read my rambles if ya made it this far. lol
Any help would be apprecitated.

Sara

Courts live on paper, you have a to get it in writing girl.

As to bankrupcey, they have changed the laws to make you go through credit councelling, but you pretty much need a lawyer anyway if you are not leagal smart. Also, you may have repairable credit, unlike how I was left.

I know I need to get it all done legally finally, but I just dont know how it all works, or even where to start. I cant really afford the lawyer right now as it is. Thanks for responding.
S.

Sara8-- try at first to call your Public Aid or state aid office and it sounds like from your financial situation, you may be able to get a discounted if not free legal advice. Explain that you have visitation/custody issues and you cannot afford a lwayer. Ask what kind of legal help you can apply for.

They do base that on your income. I know personally lawyers otherwise are expensive My lawyer charged a retainer of $1000 and then $200.0 per visit hour. Each phone call lasting 5-15 mins cost $50.00 so .....

Definitely try your state public aid office.