I was served papers by a Sheriff a few days ago. I have a court date next month where I have to show proof that I am unemployed and have been unemployed for 3 years. I'm not entirely sure how to do this. I know it could never be as simple as walking in with nothing and hoping the judge believes me. I'm a very frightened and helpless person - it's not something I'm proud of, but it is a fact nonetheless. I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder as well as having anxiety attacks associated with driving a car and leaving the house. I was fired three years ago due to issues with driving to work after having a major car accident. I have never collected unemployment and it has only just now come to my attention that I might be able to claim disability. I owe child support and back child support but I really have no source of income. My fiance supports the two of us off of 8 dollars an hour. Because of my ineptitude in handling legal issues, my drivers license has already been suspended, but I don't drive anymore so it didn't affect me much. I do sometimes think that I might be better off in jail where my fiance won't have to support me anymore, but I suppose that's not really the best way to handle things. I'm already extremely anxious at the idea of standing before a judge without my fiance by my side and I'd really like to have what I need with me so that I don't have to say much. It says the court will appoint me an attorney at the commencement of the hearing if I request one, but I don't see how that will help much since I need advice right now. Should I ask for an attorney? Will it help at all? How does one prove that they have no money? Thank you for your time.