Seeking Child Support From An Abusive Ex-Spouse

Unfortunately, divorces resulting because of serious domestic violence are nothing out of the ordinary today, leaving many families broken apart and some fearful for their lives. In many cases, mothers that have been beaten or otherwise abused are terrified to ask their ex for child support.

If you are divorcing an abusive spouse and you have the children with you in a safe place, how do you go about getting child support safely without letting your ex know where you are?

Visiting An Attorney Is Your First Step

When divorces become messy, the best way to handle the circumstances them is through the law.

By doing so, each party has the security of knowing the other may not react in a violent manner to requests for money or property shared during the marriage. However, when you are divorced from someone that has hurt you physically, it is best to have the law make any requests you may have, like that of child support.

Going through the courts to get your support is the safest and most reliable way to get the support you need for your kids when your ex is prone to dangerous domestic violence.

Serving The Abusive Ex With A Subpoena To Court

If your ex abused you or your kids, you may be worried about what will happen when he receives a subpoena to court for a child support hearing. While you will have the protection of the law while at court, you might be afraid of what might happen when you leave court or in the days before the hearing. Discussing with your attorney about placing a restraining order or an order of protection on your ex is a good idea.

By doing so, some of the protection you would have in the court room is extended to you outside of it.

Always remember: you should never have to live in fear of asking the father of your children for money to help feed and clothe them. For this reason, the law is on your side and can give you the leverage necessary to get the money you need to help raise your children.

Child Support Does Not Guarantee Visitation To An Abusive Parent

Many women that have been in an abusive marriage are afraid to ask their ex for child support for fear he will want to have time with the kids. However, if you have proven in court your ex is abusive and is dangerous to be around, you can request a no visitation order or one for only limited supervised visits. Finding out all the options you have available to you for getting the support you need for raising your kids is your number one responsibility and is easiest by visiting a family law attorney.

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