Hi IMs,
Over the last couple of weeks I've been removing my sons and my belongings in preperation for leaving a domestic violent partner after 9 years of being to scared to leave.
On saturday we finally moved our furniture into our new home and offically left on monday. Didnt tell him anything and now feeling guilty because im lying about our whereabouts to protect myself and son.
However I am unaware of what i really need to do next in terms of custody, services available to help my son and i get back on track. Any help would be great.
2 Replies
You need to speak to a lawyer. There are free services available to advise you on next steps google 'women's legal services' or similar. You should also seek advice from a domestic violence support group. They can give you advice on how keep safe from here on.
if you need financial support contact Centrelink. If it's a DV situation you might be exempt from claiming child support payments from your ex.
Don't feel guilty for not telling him where you are, he did this to himself.
But you will need legal advice regarding your sons visitation etc, wether that can happen safely etc, wether it's best to start the mediation process or wait for him that's all best discussed with a lawyer. It will help if you have previously reported him to the police, or in the past have applied for protection orders. You should also find out if you can get those things put in place now.
Call 1800 RESPECT. They will have lots of practical advice about what to do next. Possibly contact local police about it and see if you can get a DVO in place - you would probably know that the most statistically dangerous time for an abused spouse is right after they leave. If you can word the local police up about him and maybe they'll have some advice too.
I wish you all the best, IM, you've taken a huge step. Keep your chin up. You got this xxx