Be prepared- A guide for survivors

Reviewed February 2020

To get ready for any court case, you need to prepare emotionally, legally, and practically. Preparing is critical if you and your children have experienced domestic violence. 

As soon as you know you have to go to court, start preparing.

A Survivor’s Guide to Custody in the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court.

  • The Guide is not just for custody cases. It helps you prepare for any case in the Probate and Family Court. 
  • Survivors of abuse, lawyers, and domestic violence advocates explain how the Probate and Family Court works. They provide information and share their suggestions.
  • The Guide also includes references and resources to help you along your way.

You can also get the guide in Spanish Guía para sobrevivientes sobre el proceso de custodia en el tribunal de asuntos de familia de Massachusetts

Find Legal Aid

You may be able to get free legal help from your local legal aid program. Or email a question about your own legal problem to a lawyer.

Ask a Law Librarian

If it's
Monday-Friday
between
9am - 12pm and 1pm - 4pm