questions & answers

Question: MY WIFE AND I HAVE A FRIEND THAT RECENTLY BECAME A SINGLE MOM OF 3 BOYS,AGES 7,10 15.WE TRY TO HELP HER OUT AS MUCH AS WE CAN BUT WITH THESE TIMES IT'S DIFFICULT.SHE HAS TRIED MANY TIMES AND BEEN DENIED MANY TIMES FOR ASSISTANCE,WE ALL KNOW PARENTS WILL HAVE THEIR ISSUES BUT SHOULD THESE CHILDREN BE SHORT CHANGED.MY QUESTION IS WHO CAN SHE CONTACT FOR HELP THAT SHE DESERVES.PLEASE HELP.

Answer:

The following is provided for general information only. To find out how the law applies to a specific situation, contact an attorney directly.

It is difficult to provide more than general information without more knowledge regarding this situation. However, the Arizona Department of Economic Security administers the safety net programs in Arizona, though there may be other resources in the local community such as private charities, food banks or even municipal programs.

Addtionally a recently single parent may be elligible for spousal maintenance or child support. To determine whether either would be a viable option it may be best to seek the advice of an attorney working on family law matters. There is also information and resources on the Arizona Supreme Court website such as a Self-Service Center, as well as a Court-Locator to find the Superior Court in your county which may also have self help forms itself. 

Lastly there are legal and non legal resources on AZLawHelp.org under the "Legal Assistance" tab as well as a legal information phone line.  AZLawHelp also has articles with general information in the Child Support section under the "Family and Children Topics."