Seeking Urgent Legal Advice – Divorce and Financial Hardship

Hello everyone,

I’m reaching out because I truly need help. I’ve already contacted several free legal consultation services in San Diego, but unfortunately, most haven’t been able to assist me. I’m now in a very vulnerable position and running out of options.

I moved to the U.S. from Europe in August 2020, after marrying my partner in 2018. We’ve been together for nearly 10 years and legally married for almost 7. I’m now facing an unexpected and painful divorce, and I’m walking away from this relationship with nothing.

Recently, my partner asked me to appear in court under the impression that I’d be signing paperwork together. Instead, I ended up signing nothing, and the divorce papers were processed under the claim that I had been served and did not respond although I was never officially served in person. I was pressured to say I had received the documents, even though everything was done electronically. Now the divorce is proceeding without my input, and I fear it’s being pushed through unfairly.

My ex is a U.S. citizen, a former military member, and now a police officer receiving 100% disability benefits. Meanwhile, I’m alone in this country, living paycheck to paycheck in a shared house, struggling to afford basic needs. I left everything behind in Europe to build a life with him. Throughout our relationship, I experienced emotional and psychological manipulation, gaslighting, and control. I was made to believe I had no rights or options.

I just want to make sure he is held accountable for his actions, and that he doesn’t walk away from this without any responsibility, especially after everything I’ve endured. I now realize that, under California law, I may be entitled to marital property, including a car we got together. However, I was convinced to trade in my financed car for a lease that I now can’t afford. I’ll soon be without transportation, and I can’t qualify to refinance due to the high cost. I’ve also never received any financial support, despite his increase in income from military separation and disability benefits during our marriage.

I now realize that, under California law, I may be entitled to marital property, including a car we got together. However, I was convinced to trade in my financed car for a lease that I now can’t afford. I’ll soon be without transportation, and I can’t qualify to refinance due to the high cost. I’ve also never received any financial support, despite his increase in income from military separation and disability benefits during our marriage.

The divorce papers were filed on April 8. I understand there is a limited window to contest or respond before it’s finalized, but I don’t know where to begin. I’m emotionally drained, financially unstable, and have no family or close support system in the U.S. I’m currently in therapy, trying to process years of trauma, but I need legal help now.

If anyone knows of any legal aid organizations, LGBTQ+ legal support, or any resources that can help me protect my rights and secure some kind of support or fair outcome, I’d be deeply grateful.

Thank you so much for reading. And if I’ve posted this in the wrong place, please kindly let me know and point me toward the right resource or forum I truly need help.

Location: San Diego, California