m a survivor of many years of Domestic Violence. When I left my abuser I went to treatment for PTSD. When I came home he took my son a day before his birthday and basically legally kidnapped him. I fought until I was financially drained. I then found out I had a terminal brain disease and haven't been able to work in a year and half. I just got approved for social security, but I will not receive for months. My husband worked two jobs to get the attorneys we had and we ran out of money to continue fighting. My ex was given custody while he was out on bond for assault against me and will not allow any calls. The abuse hasn't stopped, it's just now through the court room and lawyer. I have been bullied by the attorney. She was unethical. They wouldn't allow my mother or my oldest son to be around him because she testified that she saw bruises on me. My ex has been arrested for stalking me and assault. He has multiple felonies and I haven't ever been arrested or ever on drugs. There have been 4 dcs cases against him and not once was I contacted. The judge wouldn't even listen to me. The guardian never interviewed me. My cries for help were ignored completely. The advocate I worked with said that Wilson county is notorious for letting domestic violence slide. That was definitely the case with Judge Gwinn, the guardian, and DCS. This is how domestic violence plays out in court if the judge allows it. This is why so many women stay. This was my worst nightmare that came true. I'm begging for myself and other women that we demand a judge that is capable of making the best decision for the children involved.
