Leena came to NCDV frightened, doubting herself, and unsure she could manage the legal process alone when she discovered she wasn’t eligible for legal aid. With support, information, and step-by-step guidance from NCDV, she found the confidence to continue as a litigant in person. Being granted an emergency non-molestation order was not only a moment of safety, it was deeply empowering.
“When I first reached out to NCDV, it was late at night and I was terrified. I pressed submit on the referral form because in that moment, I knew I had to do something to stop Joe. We had been apart for months, but the abuse was getting worse. But by the next morning, I regretted it. I almost didn’t answer the call when NCDV phoned. I felt foolish. Maybe I was overreacting. And I felt scared of what could happen next.
But I answered.
During the initial call, I discovered I wasn’t eligible for legal aid due to being in paid employment. Foolishly, I had just assumed legal aid was there for ‘people like me’ in situations like this. When I heard I would need to represent herself, my stomach dropped. The thought of navigating court without a solicitor felt impossible.
I didn’t think I could do this by myself. This is where NCDV made the difference. Step by step, NCDV guided me through what needed to happen next. The team helped me understand the process, the forms, the evidence needed, and what to expect emotionally. They did not minimise it, but they made it feel possible.
With their support, I submitted my application for a non-molestation order as a litigant in person – something I would never have believed possible.
I was anxious waiting for the hearing. I was so scared of being judged, scared of not being believed, scared that I would freeze or say the wrong thing. But I kept going, determined to get the protection I needed. It helped knowing NCDV were on my side.
The order was granted on an emergency basis.
I cried with relief. Not because everything was magically fixed, but because for the first time in a long time I had taken back control. I felt protected. I felt like this was the first step into a better future.
And most of all, I felt proud.
I did this. I actually did this. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Leena’s experience is not unusual. Many survivors assume they cannot move forward without a solicitor. Many assume legal aid will always be available. Many almost don’t answer the call the next day because the fear is louder than their bravery. But with the right support, information, and guidance, survivors can protect themselves. NCDV exists for exactly this reason.
If you are frightened, confused, or not sure you can do it: you do not have to do it alone. Support is here. The path is not easy, but it is possible.
You deserve safety. And you deserve to feel protected.
(Names have been changed to protect confidentiality)