Abused by my partner, now he wants custody of my kids

The breakdown of a relationship is always difficult especially if there are children involved. It is good that you have found the courage to leave an abusive and controlling relationship. We firstly advise that you seek support from a professional such as an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor or your GP if you have not already done so, as it appears that you have been the victim of significant domestic abuse.

Legal Aid is available to parents who are disputing children’s contact arrangements subject to a means and merits test. The means part of the test is in relation to a financial eligibility check. As you are on Universal Credit, you automatically satisfy this part of the test. To satisfy the merits test you must have been the victim of domestic abuse and be able to evidence this. Examples of sufficient evidence include that your ex-partner was arrested, cautioned, or convicted for a domestic violence offence against you, there are ongoing criminal proceedings in relation to a domestic violence offence against you, a Domestic Violence Protection Notice or protective injunction was put in place to protect you from your ex-partner, or an appropriate professional can provide a letter which states that in their professional opinion you have been the victim of domestic abuse perpetrated by your ex-partner.

Appropriate professionals include health visitors or professionals, GP’s, Independent Domestic Violence Advisors, Independent Sexual Violence Advisors, the Local Authority or a housing association or an organisation providing domestic violence support services.