[Brittney]

I had an attorney but she was no good to my case and I had to end our assoctian, and come to find out there had been many complaints about her that she was fired. Anyway, I might (key word: might) be able to afford a (custody) attorney and I'm at my final hearing and my boys lives are in the hands of the judge and I'm terrified because I'm expecting the worse. I'm thinking about writing a letter to the judge, just stating that I'm unprepared and unknowledgable about the court's rules and procedures but nevertheless I'm willing to fight (because I can't afford an attorney at the last-minute). Might I make an ass of myself, at least I did it for my children and I tried. Do you think writing the judge will help things or worsen things? The letter's for informational purposes only.

[momrfg2003]

I don't think it's necessary, but it may help you feel better. The judge will know that he's not dealing with an attorney and will make certain allowances.

[Arthur W]

Forget writing the Judge and contact him immediately and advice him of the situation, especially the part of not knowing what to do. Contact her attorney too and ask for for postponement. Contact your local legal aid association and tell them your story and ask for pro-bono (free) attorney stating you have allyour money tied up with the last one. Mail takes too long and time isnt one thing youve got alot of right now so get moving. Call the court house right now.

[jupyter_flew]

I wouldn't write the judge. It's his or her duty to treat everyone the same in a manner that best rules fairly. It's not the court's fault that you are uneducated. To expect leniency as a result of lack of knowledge shows you as an irresponsible person. Save the time it would take you to better educate yourself instead.

Good luck.

[Tamiri]

You can always just do it. If the judge sees it as a breech of something, he can choose not to read it.
At least you'll know you tried.

[~nicole~]

The state can furnish you an attorney if you can't afford one.