Legal Fees for Kids

I have had the kids for 5 years now, and the father is being released from prison and wants full custody back. After trying to retain a lawyer, the expenses are much more then I can afford. He has been in prison 3 times now, with violent crimes. I do not want to let the kids go back to him, as I have had them this long and they are like my own kids. The guardian at lietem that I spoke to today said he has the right as a father to file for custody and be a father. There were no crimes against children, so he has rights still. My lawyer plans on filing for a revocation of his rights, protection order and continue my custody order with all the kids. I need help with expenses...I am counting on my family and friends to help pull me through..... I apprecaite each one of you!