I cannot afford my divorce attorney anymore. There is a custody evaluator who will be testifying in court. I sat through the deposition today and know what opposing counsel will be grilling her about at the hearing. If I represent myself, will I be able to cross-examine the custody evaluator and be treated as fairly as an attorney?
Optional Information: Country relating to Question: United States State (if USA): California
Thank you for your question and for using JA. You have the right to call your own witnesses and also to cross examine any witnesses that are called by the opposing party. However, cross examination is an "art". If you are going forward without an attorney you need to see if your court will allow you to attend a couple of days of hearings so that you can learn the procedure. "Fairly" is in the eye of the beholder. I often think the judge is not treating me fairly. Most judges do give a pro se party every opportunity but you are held to the same standard of knowledge and skill as an attorney.
Experience: Actively practicing trial attorney