Abusive father wants us to leave

[MaryT]

We need help, never legally married, living in Florida for the past 10 years. We have 3 daughters together, ages 4,7.and 10.The father has been physically abusive to me in front of the kids for years. Now he wants us to leave the house we have been living in as a family for the last 4 years with nothing, so he can have his new girlfiend move in. He has threatened to kill my mother if I ever went to the police for help. He has a successful painting business. Who can we go to for help and advice,
Thank you

 

[dpech66]

First of all, I am not an attorney, but a paralegal who has worked in a domestic violence workshop in California. I would check with your local procedure to see how much of this could be helpful to you.

As I see it, you have two options. You can just give him what he wants-leave, with nothing. Your other option is to consult with local authorities and see about getting a domestic violence restraining order, with a move out order (you would get to stay in the home and he would be forced to move out). I am aware of many victims of domestic violence here in California who use this option. Is this a rental home or do one of you (or both) own it? Can you afford to stay in the home on your own? Is it worth fighting for or would it be less hassle to just let him have it and move on? These are questions you need to honestly ask yourself before deciding what course of action you want to take.

Also, I encourage you to go down to your local Family Support division of the District Attorney and have child support ordered.

Good luck to you!