Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia

What is my next step????

I am currently married unhappily. I have two kids who I adore very much. I have been emotionally and physically abused, controlled my entire marriage to my husband. Just recently he has made threats to me that he was going to take my kids away from and his parents did the same as well. I have felt trapped in this marriage for years. We don't have hardly any money. He has controlled and played mind games to get me to do things for him. It's a sick relationship. I hate where I am. I am unhappy and scared for me and my children. He has a hard time controlling his anger. I want to leave and file for divorce and possibly a restraining order. I want to leave the state of Virginia and possibly go home to my mothers in Maryland. He has threatened me sooo much to the point that I am afraid to make any suggestions or even talk as adults about this because it elevates.

Please help.. what do i need to do??? I"m scared for my children.


Asked on 2/24/00, 4:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Olivier Long Law Office of Olivier Denier Long

Re: What is my next step????

The next step is to provide details of mental and physical abuse to a Virginia attorney. The lawyer should be able to advise you from your details if you have grounds for leaving the marriage without be accused of desertion. You want to avoid being accused of desertion or any other marital fault. If you are found responsible for a marital fault, it could affect your right to claim spousal support. There are things you can do to document the abuse, obtain therapy and plan for a departure. These things need to be carefully organized with a lawyer... You might try getting help from legal aid, or the Vienna Women's Center.

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Answered on 3/07/00, 5:17 pm


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