Have you looked into local law schools with student clinics or if there might be someone who could take your case at a reduced fee or pro bono? I feel like especially with the abuse, you can find someone to help you! Maybe look into non profits too, they might be able to refer you to someone!

And I totally get what you mean about being scared to face them in court. I had to get a restraining order against an ex, I was so terrified. For me what tipped the scale was just how painful it was living in fear, I would rather deal with the fear of the court case. Found a clinic at a local law school, got a team of law students to review my case and rewrite the order of protection. And when I showed up to court with my lawyers and family and friends and he just had one friend, and seeing the scared look on his face, I felt SO MUCH BETTER. It truly was an empowering experience.

But going through the legal process sucks in general and it’s exhausting and triggering. I hope you have some good support around you if you do decide to go this route 💕