Keep my Son Safe
Donation protected
6 weeks ago I took one of the biggest steps of my life and filed a domestic violence restraining order against the father of my child. He was removed from our home and my child and I started rebuilding our lives. Since that removal, my now-ex has harassed me repeatedly and is retaliating by trying to take my child away because I finally filed for permanent, full custody.
Unfortunately, at this time, I do not qualify for assistance from Legal Aid.
I have contacted my local bar association and found an attorney willing to take on my case at a significantly reduced cost — nearly close to probono. However, I still cannot afford this vital assistance. I’ve reached out to shelters, local charities, and the Domestic Violence Resource Center in the hopes of being put in touch with a lawyer willing to help me free of charge and was unsuccessful. My only choice at this point is to pay to defend my custody petition if I want to ensure my son stays safe with me.
My prospective lawyer has given me a quote of $1800-$1900 for a custody case billed out at his reduced rate, to be paid as a retainer. They do not anticipate it costing more than this and if so, once the retainer is depleted, they will work with me on a payment plan suitable to my SSDI payments. They require the retainer upfront.
My child’s father has an attorney and they have mailed me their response to the custody petition I filed. I defend my restraining order on March 11th in court. The attorney will begin work on the custody case ASAP as there is no hearing set yet.
I am scared. My 12 y/o child who is autistic is also terrified.
We need help.
(Family photos not shared to keep family anonymous and safe)
Unfortunately, at this time, I do not qualify for assistance from Legal Aid.
I have contacted my local bar association and found an attorney willing to take on my case at a significantly reduced cost — nearly close to probono. However, I still cannot afford this vital assistance. I’ve reached out to shelters, local charities, and the Domestic Violence Resource Center in the hopes of being put in touch with a lawyer willing to help me free of charge and was unsuccessful. My only choice at this point is to pay to defend my custody petition if I want to ensure my son stays safe with me.
My prospective lawyer has given me a quote of $1800-$1900 for a custody case billed out at his reduced rate, to be paid as a retainer. They do not anticipate it costing more than this and if so, once the retainer is depleted, they will work with me on a payment plan suitable to my SSDI payments. They require the retainer upfront.
My child’s father has an attorney and they have mailed me their response to the custody petition I filed. I defend my restraining order on March 11th in court. The attorney will begin work on the custody case ASAP as there is no hearing set yet.
I am scared. My 12 y/o child who is autistic is also terrified.
We need help.
(Family photos not shared to keep family anonymous and safe)
Organizer
Jayne Constantine
Organizer
Portland, OR
