Molly and her ex moved to Oregon from Virginia with their 4 year-old daughter Olivia in hopes of a better life. When the domestic violence she had previously endured continued to escalate after their move, Molly knew she needed to leave to protect her daughter. As soon as Molly received information about a domestic violence shelter, she knew it was time for her to leave with Olivia. Molly filed for custody soon thereafter, only to find out that her ex had already filed for custody in Virginia. Legal aid successfully represented Molly in her custody case and now she and Olivia are safe from harm. She told CEJ that, “it was such a big relief to know that I would have someone there to help me.” Having a legal aid attorney meant that she could use her paycheck for rent and groceries.
