My question involves a marriage in the state of:North Carolina
I started seeing a guy in January. I live in a different state. We saw each other for a month while he was in town working. He then went back home and we took turns visiting each other on the weekends. He was separated- he ex moved home with her mom and they had not been living together for some time.
His ex found out he was seeing me and served me with these papers. I am in shock and it isn't fair. This is what my civil summons says:
A civil actions has been commenced against you! You are notified to appear and answer the complaint of the plaintiff as follows:
1. Serve a copy of your written answer to the complaint upon the plaintiff or plaintiff attorney within 30 days after you have been served. You many serve your answer by delivering a copy to the plaintiff or by mailing it to the plaintiffs last known address.
2. File the original of the written answer within the Clerk of Superior Court.
If you fail to answer the complaint, the plaintiff will apply to the Court for the relief demonstrated in the complaint.
Anyways, my real question- I called an attorney. She told me how she would help with the complaint and told me her steps to fighting it. She stated I would want a jury trial for this type of case. The retainer is WAY more than I can afford. 4,500
Can I just respond to this complaint? It is 4 pages long. Can I just write a response to all the things mentioned? Do I need to hire an attorney? I will say his ex hired a PI and has evidence of us staying the night together and kissing in public. He has NO proof of separation because she simply moved home and they planned on living separate lives until they could file for a divorce (after a year separation).
Now this. So unfair.
I just want to know if I HAVE to hire an attorney. Thanks for any help you can provide.

