An introduction to my adventure in representing myself in court...

You know the story... high school sweethearts, romantic engagement, sweet little wedding, blissful marriage complete with 3 amazing children, a beautiful home and a couple of devoted dogs (even a few of horses.)  Then it all goes wrong and next thing you know we're packing the house, separating the pooches, struggling to pay that pile of bills, looking for the "best" attorney and trying to explain to your children why their entire world has just come crashing down.  If you're reading this, I assume you've been there and know that the pain and struggles I'm talking about.

In a divorce, everyone loses and no one walks away with what they think they are entitled to.  But as parents, it should always be our job to put that aside and regardless of who has custody or what visitation schedule has been set up, to make sure that our children come first and that their needs are met, their self-esteem kept high and that they feel safe, secure and most importantly LOVED.  Nothing is as sad as watching a parent fail at those vital responsibilities.  Unfortunately, my ex failed.. miserably.

This isn't a bash fest by any means, as a matter of fact... I feel bad for him.  He's missed some of the most amazing moments in a parents life.  But sad as i may be for him, he has inherent obligations to his children. I can not force him to be a good parent, a supportive father or a compassionate dad... but I can make sure he provides the necessary financial support he is obligated to pay by law and according to our divorce agreement to give the best quality of life possible to our children. That's what this is all about... standing up for yourself, finding the skills and resources to take on that battle without putting yourself in a position to be financial ruined and living in a cardboard box.  Attorney's, while knowledgeable and experienced, AREN'T cheap! You can do this on your own and I'm hoping to share what I've learned (morally, legally and emotionally) so more women can find the courage to file their own legal documents, conduct their own trials, issue their own subpoenas and face the Judge as a respected, educated and well prepared parent who is simply trying to provide the very best for their children.

More to come... please feel free to share your stories, offer your comments or give direction to topics of value to single parents.

Bobbi