Do not be Helpless !!

When I was at the Law Library in a neighboring county. I was doing some research on a case that I am defending myself on.

There was a book on the counter. " How to prepare a law suit and win".
I think this would be a good starting point. If you don't have enough money to pay an attorney.

Some Judges will cut you some slack when you represent yourself. Some will send you down the road. I was once told by a Judge. When I appeared for a summons. That I was the first person to ever show up and not default.
He was kind and understanding. He respected me for showing up.

Most Judges are amused. Most of their customers are crackheads. They are usually fair minded people.

One may file a " Motion for additional time". It must state why you need time.
What you plan on doing and what may be achieved by it.

Amateur legal research is time consuming and stressful. Every party is usually motivated to settle.

Good luck.