How many times have you been told already??
The rules of procedures/statutes in your state dictate the amount of time required to respond to a motion.
Just because he has a lawyer does not automatically entitle you to one. Nor is the court going to care why you chose not to retain legal representation. Have you even consulted with attorneys at all? You keep making excuses, but the reason you can not afford one is because you are not working. You not working, hence having no money is your problem -- nobody else's. Have you utilized any services in your community for job placement if you are dyslexic? The amount of support he pays you is HIS PORTION towards the necessities of the child. You are legally required to provide the rest. When you have children, some things like returning to school and might have to be put on hold because your child(ren) REQUIRE your support. Clearly, you are choosing yourself over them.
You could try to motion the court for a continuance, but you have to follow court rules and/or civil procedures on that. Plus, you need good reason for it. You can try that you are trying to seek counsel. You can also try because of his other trial (but you would have to show how it's relevant). But depending on how long it's been on the docket, it might get shot down as well.
You best start googling your court rules, state statutes and rules of procedure because you WILL be held to the same standard as an attorney since you chose to represent yourself. And if you don't follow the rules, expect the other parent's attorney to ask the court to shoot yours down.
