No matter what corner of the world you look, family courts do not believe women when they report abuse. Instead, they are put on trial for a myriad of mothering charges giving the abuser exactly what he desires: power and control.

Read by Carys

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I was in a 6½ year relationship with my ex-husband, during which he was verbally, emotionally, and physically abusive. 

With my family’s support, I finally found the courage to leave when our child was a baby. 

After filing for divorce, my Ex submitted a court application and, almost 5 years later, I’m still trapped in proceedings.

Last year, when I reported concerns about troubling behaviors and statements my child had made, my Ex accused me of parental alienation. This resulted in our then, 5-year-old child, being transferred to his custody. It was the worst day of my life. 

Sadly, the court gave him exactly what he desires: power and control, enabling him to keep punishing me for leaving and exposing him. 

It’s been heartbreaking to realize that this is happening to thousands of women worldwide. I expected family court to be a place of justice that would recognize abuse, but it’s been the total opposite. 

Instead, it’s been an extremely traumatic experience, and the thought of entering that building again makes me feel sick. 

Mum in England

Created in collaboration with: Sublime Life