*Name changed to protect our client’s identity
When Alejandra first sought help protecting herself and her five children from her husband’s anger, she was denied a temporary protective order. Although her husband’s anger dominated their home, he had not been physically violent or made specific threats of harm for several years.
She came to Pisgah Legal Services and was advised that, while emotional and verbal abuse are incredibly harmful, it can be extremely challenging to get a protective order under North Carolina law based solely on that type of abuse.
PLS helped Alejandra with a safety plan and armed her with advice on her rights. A few months later, Alejandra reached out again after the abuse continued and resulted in her teenage daughter being hospitalized in a mental health facility.
“We were living in hell,” says Alejandra.
With the help of PLS, Alejandra could now secure a protective order for herself and the four children who were under the age of 18. The order also granted her custody of the children, possession of her vehicle, and possession of the marital residence. But these protections were temporary as a domestic violence protective order lasts a maximum of one year unless it is renewed.
Months later, PLS attorney Becca was able to negotiate a settlement that permanently granted Alejandra ownership of the home and vehicle and permanently protected the child who was hospitalized from ever seeing her father again – but the fight wasn’t over.
Despite agreeing to the terms of the deal, Alejandra’s husband refused to turn over the titles to the home and vehicle. So PLS stepped in one more time and filed for contempt. Alejandra finally got the titles signed over to her, cementing a secure future for herself and her children.
Alejandra says, “I am so appreciative of Pisgah. I prayed and they are the angels that were given to me.”
Reflecting on the case, Becca says, “domestic violence – emotional and physical – in the home can have devastating impacts on survivors and their children, and it can be challenging to figure out how to get out and do so on their own. I’m grateful to work at Pisgah Legal and have the opportunity to help clients like Alejandra navigate a path to safety and stability for themselves and their children.”