Help Fight for My Eli

I hope this message finds you all in good health and high spirits. My name is Shannon Coulter. I am reaching out to you today with an extremely humble request for your support. I am currently facing a challenging custody battle and I am seeking financial assistance in an effort to retain an attorney that will be critical in protecting and fighting for the rights of my son.

In May of last year, I was served with papers after the father of my son retained a private attorney and began his relentless attempt to seek sole custody of our son, while only allowing me to have time with my son 3 weekends in a month. Up to this point, I have been navigating this extremely difficult legal process within the family court system as a pro se litigant without any financial means to cover the cost of legal representation, the guardian ad litem fees, mediation fees and more. I currently do not receive child support. Every dollar I earn from work goes to cover my rent, car, utilities, groceries and gas, etc. This has been the hardest and scariest year and half of my life. It is my hope that in being honest, humble and vulnerable and with your love and support, together we can make a difference in the future and well-being of my son's life.

As most of you know, being a parent is the greatest joy in life. It provides purpose, unconditional love and the opportunity to shape a bright future for our children. My children have been my everything from the day they were born and I cannot imagine a world where I am only seeing my sweet boy 6 days in a month. This past year has been really hard on both my son and I. The long lasting effects from the potential outcome at the end of this trial would be detrimental to my son's mental, emotional and physical well-being. I promised my little boy that I would do whatever it took to make sure that he gets equal time with mommy (and daddy). However in truth, I am terrified at what the outcome at the final hearing could and will most likely be without an attorney. I urgently need representation to protect both Eli and myself.

Legal expenses associated with child custody cases can be overwhelming, and I am determined not to let financial constraints hinder my ability to provide the best possible future for my child. Engaging an experienced family lawyer is crucial in advocating for my rights as a parent and ensuring that my child's best interests are protected. By contributing to this GoFundMe, you will directly help me secure the legal representation that I so desperately need. Your selfless donations will cover legal fees, court expenses and any professional consultation required throughout this challenging process. Your support will ensure my son's voice is heard and that he has a fair chance at growing up in a loving and nurturing environment.

I kindly ask that you share this campaign with your network of friends, family and supporters. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps bring us closer to our goal. I am deeply grateful for your time and consideration. Creating this GoFundMe has been one of the hardest and scariest things for me to do, Asking for help in such a way feels really difficult, overwhelming and heavy. I am here in spite of fear because I love my son and there is nothing in this world that I would not do to protect him.

I cannot truly express how much your support means to me and my little family during this difficult time. Your generosity will not be forgotten. I love you.

It feels important to say that time is critical as the final hearing has been scheduled for a 4 day trial at the end of October. While I cannot speak publicly on the details of this case, I will be more than willing to answer any questions, privately.