Family Law Project for Domestic Abuse Survivors

“I’ve known for a long time this would end with him killing me,” Erica* told her WBF attorney.

Erica left Marcus* after an abusive six month relationship. After leaving, she spent years trying to escape him. First, Erica moved to a new apartment while Marcus was in jail for gang-related activity. As soon as he was released, he tracked down Erica and tried to light her apartment on fire, dousing it in kerosene. Fortunately, he was scared off by a neighbor. Later, he returned and kicked the door down and threatened Erica with a machete. Marcus was arrested again.

When Marcus was released, he sent his brother to threaten Erica, saying “Marcus is coming.” Erica fled that very day. She moved to a domestic violence shelter more than 8 hours away. Still, she was not free from Marcus. She continued to receive harassing phone calls and emails.

Erica needed a restraining order. She went to court twice, alone, to petition for a restraining order, but she was denied. Because she had moved out of state to flee her abuser, the judge believed the Massachusetts court did not have jurisdiction over Erica’s case. Erica, not being a lawyer, was confused and unsure of how to proceed.

Fortunately, Erica found the WBF and was provided a pro bono attorney. Her attorney accompanied her to court, arguing that the Massachusetts court did have jurisdiction over Erica’s case.  The WBF-trained attorney convinced the judge that a restraining order was necessary and appropriate. Erica now has the protection of a restraining order, and remains safe in an undisclosed location.

Every day hundreds of women like Erica face a daunting, complicated legal system. At the Women's Bar Foundation, our volunteer attorneys ensure that women like Erica do not have to face that system alone.