America’s courts are built on a system that assumes that almost everyone who comes to court has a lawyer.  Unfortunately, the reality is different.  An increasing number of divorce cases go forward without lawyers.  Litigants who cannot afford an attorney and do not qualify for legal aid are on their own—pro se.  They are on their own in life-altering situations like divorce and child custody.

As the economy has worsened, the ranks of the self-represented have expanded.  Lawyers do make a difference.  But for those whose only option is to go it alone, at least some limited, affordable time with a  divorce lawyer is important.