I was awarded a lump sum payment in a settlement. Never got paid. Can't afford an attorney, she got it all.

Question

Divorce decree states she got all assets with the stipulation that she was to pay me 1 year from the decree. Haven't received a dime. Don't know what papers to file now. It's been 16 months. Any great minds out there have the answer?

Answer 1

Call an attorney. They will usually give you a free consultation.

You can explain your situation and the lawyer may take the case and charge her for the fees. If it is clearly stated in the decree, the lawyer can go back to the judge and show she hasn't lived up to the agreement. The judge will then force her to pay.

Answer 2

You should be able to find an attorney who will work for a percentage of the amount you are owed.  Thus you won't need any money up front.

Other than that you could go to the court house for advice.  Sometimes the courts can help you out a little bit collecting on a court ruling.

Answer 3

Try Legal Aid in your area.