Hi, my name is Amanda. I am looking for help with legal fees. I am not one to ask for help however when it comes to my children I'll do anything to protect them.

On October 5th 2025 I picked up my daughter from her dad's. When we stopped to get gas I noticed bruises on her arms. I asked Melody what happened and she told me her dad got mad at her because she wanted to go home to change out of the clothes she was wearing, because it kept exposing her chest. Her dad didn't want to go back. She threw a fit because of this (she is on the spectrum and struggles when clothes don't feel right) Melody then told me he had gotten physical with her during this fit. I won't go into details of the specifics. He left a mark on her forehead and bruises around her arms from squeezing so hard.

We were able to get a protection order. however her dad is taking it to court. As well as the Norfolk Police did not see it being necessary to press charges. They never interviewed her only her father. The police said "he seemed genuine, but the bruises are concerning".

I am trying to keep Melody safe and worry the justice system is going to fail her. I am asking for any help to get a lawyer so I can protect my baby.