SUCCESS STORY

Donna, a young mother, was trapped in an abusive relationship. Her boyfriend Curtis had a history of physical abuse towards her and was now threatening to take away their two young children. Donna was afraid to call the police because Curtis had family and friends who owned guns. How could Donna separate herself from the abuse and secure a safe life with her family?

How Legal Aid Helped
Donna approached the Bay Area Legal Aid Temporary Restraining Order Clinic for help. As part of our Domestic Violence Collaborative, she was referred to Legal Aid, who appointed a pro bono attorney to handle her case.

• Trained by the Domestic Violence Collaborative, the attorney represented Donna at a hearing for her permanent restraining order.

• The attorney successfully argued for a three-year restraining order; full legal and physical custody of the children to Donna; and only supervised visitation at a neutral, court-ordered location for Curtis.

Today Donna remains separated from Curtis. She and her kids are establishing a new life away from the abuse and in a safe environment.

To help give hope to young mother like Donna who is establishing a new life away from the abuse and in a safe environment, please give a gift.