• WomensLaw.Org -
Information regarding state specific domestic violence laws, child custody issues, protection orders and other resources related to domestic violence in a particular state
Domestic Violence Discussion
with Jennifer Landhuis
19. Question: - My husband and I have been together for 7 years. He has always had a bad temper. He has called me stupid, told me to shut my f------ mouth, or put me down for the things I like or am interested in. Today, and three times before, he threatened that he would kill me if I ever left and took the children. I want to leave, and my parents said I could stay with them. But they're in another state, and I am confused on what to do, or that the law might give him custody. He is a good dad, so I feel bad about taking the kids away from him. There's no way I could afford to live on my own and stay in the state I'm in now. What should I do??? Thank you!
Answer: You are best off contacting an attorney to see about the possibility of relocating. Your local domestic violence program will also be an excellent resource for you. They should be able to refer you to a local attorney or to a Legal Aid project within your state that can provide free or reduced legal services to domestic violence victims. To contact your local program, you can call the national hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Even if you should not decided to relocate, your local program can provide counseling and support groups for you and your children.
Be sure to document the incidents that are occurring and what he is stating to you in case you need it for a protection order or a custody order. You and your children deserve a life free from violence. As for his parenting ability, "good dads" don't abuse their children's mother, plain and simple.
