Justice shouldn't depend on a bank balance: Inés's custody modification

I'm facing a custody modification. My hearing is scheduled for June, and the filing fees and the lawyer's retainer come to $950. I have been told by three legal-aid offices that their waiting list is longer than my deadline. I have all of my paperwork ready, and my caseworker at the Irapuato Community Legal Centre has confirmed that my case is valid. If I miss the deadline I could lose my right to stay with my family and my job. My children were born here and this is the only home they know. I'll share any non-sensitive updates as the case moves along. The money goes to the immigration attorney's trust account and the court filing office. I'll upload receipts with sensitive details removed. Where the $950 goes: • Attorney retainer: $660 • Filing and biometrics fees: $165 • Certified translations and document copies: $85 • Court-appointed interpreter and travel: $40 I'll keep this page updated with receipts as things happen. - Inés