In the fall of 2021, Kay had a baby with an abusive partner. A little over 2 months later, Kay chose to protect her infant child and leave her partner. In January of 2022 the abusive partner was arrested and sent to jail. Kay filed for divorce. Over the next months, she found out that the man she thought was her husband was married to another lady in a different state. She also found out he had an extensive criminal record. She was granted an annulment. A year later, her ex was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Per the agreement when the annulment and sentencing happened, Kay’s child’s “sperm donor” doesn't have custody of her. But when he gets released, he’ll have the right to request visits with Kay’s child. And that will be something they will need to honor per their agreement. He has rights as the biological father. In September, Kay filed a petition to have his rights terminated. He has requested a public defender to fight this petition. However, both the judge and the guardian ad litem said that they found probable cause to move forward with the termination. However, the biological parent has the right to a lawyer and he has the right to request a trial. When Kay started this process, she had plans to represent herself. However, now that the child’s bio father has brought on a lawyer, she will need to find a lawyer to represent her. Kay contacted domestic violence shelters and her court appointed advocate has contacted lawyers on her behalf. Unfortunately Judicare and all other legal aid services have a heavy workload and not enough funds. She has found a lawyer who is willing to consult and see if they can work on the case. On the day after Christmas, Kay is meeting with this lawyer. She will pay them $600 on that date. When Kay chooses an attorney at the end of January, she needs a retainer of $4,500. This is a great financial burden for Kay and she is reaching out in her time of need. The lawyers who have consulted with Kay have warned her if this goes to trial, she is looking at thousands and thousands of dollars to win the case. Can you help Kay and her child in this difficult time?

Update: The past eight months have been emotionally draining, with four court appearances since filing for Termination of Parental Rights (TPR). Each hearing has been grueling and stressful. The financial burden continues to grow, leaving me wondering how much more I can endure.

I'm grateful for your support and guidance during this challenging time. My next court date is scheduled for early next month, and I'm feeling particularly anxious. This appearance may be the last before a potential jury trial, if that's the path he chooses to take."