For the past six years, I have been fighting in custody court against my abuser. Throughout this time, I have done everything the courts have asked of me. I moved closer to my son, met with CPS and the police to ensure there was no abuse from me, and went through years of therapy. The results have shown that I was not the abuser—I was the abused. Despite this, I am still being abused through the custody process. I had to go pro-se because I couldn't afford a lawyer, so I learned the laws and represented myself as best as I could. Unfortunately, I was met by a judge who didn't care about evidence and suppressed my evidence and witnesses. When I spoke up for my rights and my son's rights, I was retaliated against by the judge. I have put myself in debt trying to fight for my son and to keep myself above water.

Now, I have an attorney, but I cannot afford the legal fees, especially as visitation from the previous order is still not being followed. I owe a friend a significant amount of money for helping me when she didn't have to, and I have had to take out many loans that I am now struggling to pay back. My main goal is to give my son a life where he can show love towards both parents and live the best life possible when he is with me. I would love to be able to pay back those who helped me in these hard times, afford my lawyer, and not be so far in debt that I can't give my son a happy life. I know money isn't everything, but it is the only thing that makes it possible to exercise your rights and keep them from being taken from you. Without the ability to pay for legal fees, you have no rights—I learned that the hard way.

So I am graciously asking for help with my legal fees and to pay back those who supported me. Any support will help me continue to fight for my rights and my son's happiness. Thank you for considering helping us.