Can't Afford Guardian ad Litem

[ForMyChildren]

My question involves a child custody Sith case from the State of: South Carolina
I am the defendent in a child custody case. His father is trying to get full custody by way of vicious lies and accusations. So i am now faced with hiring an attorney, who all require atleast a $3000 retainer (his attorney charged him $800 as a retainer and is coming after me for the rest!! which is so far up to $3000). I am a full time student and bring i'm just enough to pay my rent, utilities, groceries,etc. At the temporary hearing i provided my financial declaration which showed i bring in just enough for myself and my children's necessities. The judge ordered a fee of $2500 for the guardian to be paid within 20 days of the hearing which was May 8th. We are to split the cost but even with that it is waaay out of my reach and i can prove i don't have that kind of money unfortunately....that's why i'm in school now...but my question is if i don't pay what happens, is an extension possible, or can his father be required to foot the bill.i honestly would prefer that he pays all of it because he is the one dragging me into court for no reason.i don't have a record, son isn't abused, I've taken care of his medical expenses etc. he its recently married and now he decides to 'fight' me for custody.

[Mr. Knowitall]

A "Sith" case? You're trying to take custody from Darth Vader?

You have a lawyer. You need to ask your lawyer what consequence the judge might impose if you fail to follow his order. Presumably you raised the issue of cost at the time the judge made his order, and thus the judge can be presumed to have considered your claims and deemed you capable of complying with the order? Your lawyer knows the background here, we do not.