Violation of Order of Protection - HELP!!

[DL411]

My case against my abusive ex has been reset for next month. I have to either hire private counsel or represent myself. I cannot afford legal representation, yet do not qualify for free Legal Aide services. I do not feel that I will be competent enough to represent myself in the matter either. I've never been down this legal road before. I'm stressing over this so much it's affecting my health. I need help and quick, time is running out on me! Oh but he claims he's "indigent" and gets a court appointed public defender!!

[DL411]

Just an update here. I'm in TN. Surely someone here has had experience w/ a violation?

[courtneyiscool]

have. I don't know about TN, but you should have excess to a domestic violence counselor who can look into getting an attorney for you. I would start there and see what you can do. Usually, domestic violence courts provide attorneys for victims of domestic abuse.

Hope this helps! Good luck, girl!

[DL411]

Thanks for offering your suggestions, Courtney but no, the judge said that the law does not allow for counsel to be appointed for me. I either have to represent myself or hire an attorney. My court date is a couple of days away.

I went to the D.A.'s office & they could not help me because it is considered a civil matter. They only handle criminal cases. They put me in touch with Legal Aid and I didn't qualify for representation. I've contacted several local attorneys who charge a minimum of $250./hr. and/or a $3000. retainer. There is simply no way I can afford that.

I guess I give up & will have no choice but to ask the judge to drop the case because I don't have the first clue how to represent myself. I now completely understand why women do not follow through with their cases!

[kitty8199]

You don't need counsil, to show porrof he violated. Just bring the proof. My ex violated. Call the police, and they will take care of it. All they had to do was listen to and record the voicemails my ex left. THey filed the paperwork, and the ass didn't even show up to court. All the judge needs is proof. Violaion of an OOP is a felony in most states called Aggrivated stalking.

[kitty8199]

Also, the judge is FOS when he said that. Call a battered women's shelter. At the very least they will give you a legal advocate(I had that). They law protects battered women now. You can get counsil, for free. Victims of violence never have to pay, even for medical care at an emergency room(I work there)