Child Support Legal Guidance

Summary

In Florida, either guardian can request child support, even if not initially ordered. The age of the child may influence support requests, especially for post-secondary education. Since the guardianship is under Georgia jurisdiction, consulting a Georgia-licensed family law attorney is advisable. Respond promptly to any certified letters regarding child support to avoid legal issues. If financial constraints are a concern, explore legal aid services, pro bono programs, or law school clinics in both Florida and Georgia for assistance. Consider self-representation if necessary, and file a motion in Georgia to enforce visitation rights if needed.

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My sister and her husband have gaurdianship over my * kids * */*, *,and *. She stopped letting me see or have anything to do with them * yrs ago..I attempt contact with them regularly. Theyve found waus to contact me a fre times but she finds out and punishes them so now theyve stopped trying. She tells me its thier choice if they want to see or talk to me theyre not babies but thats obviously untrue. There is no reason for her actions other that shes a narcissistic bully n has been my whole life. Im a good mother and i love my kids ive been through some really tough times which caused us to get to this situation..i struggle as a single mother of * in swfla its impossible for me to keep up with the price of living and three kids on my own no child support or any kind of help what so ever n thats the only reason were even in this situation the judge gave me unlimited visitation and contact my sister is just being evil for no reason. A few days ago i got a certified letter and it says JUST my bro in law not my sister just her husband wants child support for ONLY my * and a half year old almost adult son...not the other two...only my oldest and it just dosnt make any sense to me why only one? And why my brother in law who before now has been very bare minimum when it comes to my kids he didnt wat to help us in the first place. Hes never been on any other paperwork for school or anything why would just my bro in law file for ONLY my almost adult child? And it states in the letter that i may owe back child support but how can that be uf ive never been ordered to pay child support?
It sounds like a complex situation. Here are some general points that might help you:
- In Florida, either guardian can request child support.
- Even if a judge initially didn't order child support, circumstances can change prompting a request.
- The age of the child (* */*) might be a factor, especially if nearing * and support is needed for post-secondary education.
Are you currently represented by an attorney? If not, it might be helpful to seek legal advice to address the certified letter and your visitation rights.
No i tried legal aid but havnt heard back yet and we live in florida but the gaurdianship is jurisdiction in georgia
Case Rating: *.
Given the complexity of your situation, it's important to address both the child support request and the visitation rights. Here are some steps you can consider:
- Consult a Family Law Attorney: Since the guardianship jurisdiction is in Georgia, you might need a lawyer licensed in Georgia.
- Respond to the Certified Letter: Ensure you respond within the given timeframe to avoid any legal repercussions.
- File for Enforcement of Visitation Rights: You can file a motion in Georgia to enforce the visitation rights granted by the judge.

Is there any specific aspect of the situation you need more information on?
I dont know how i can pay for any of that..im barley holding my head above water as it is right now. And the letter specificlt states the petition will only adress child support it will not support custody or visitation
I understand the financial strain you're under. Here are some steps you can take:
- Legal Aid Services: Keep trying to get in touch with them. They can offer free or low-cost legal assistance.
- Self-Representation: Consider representing yourself in court. Many courts have self-help centers.
- Family Support: Sometimes local community organizations or family services can offer support.
Would you like more information on how to represent yourself in court?
Id like information on where and how i can try to get help or pro bono
You can try to find pro bono legal assistance through several resources:
- Legal Aid Organizations: Continue reaching out to legal aid services in both Florida and Georgia.
- Pro Bono Programs: Contact the Georgia State Bar or Florida State Bar for information on pro bono programs.
- Law Schools: Some law schools offer free legal clinics where students, supervised by licensed attorneys, provide assistance.
Would you like more detailed information on any of these options?
Yes
Sure, here are some detailed options for you to find pro bono legal assistance:
- Legal Aid Organizations:
- Florida Legal Services: www.floridalegal.org
- Georgia Legal Services Program: www.glsp.org

- Pro Bono Programs:
- Florida Bar Pro Bono Program: www.floridabar.org/public/probono/
- Georgia State Bar Pro Bono Project: www.gabar.org/publicservice/
- Law Schools:
- University of Florida Levin College of Law: www.law.ufl.edu/clinics
- Georgia State University College of Law: law.gsu.edu/clinics/
Is there any other information you need?