“Raquel” is a mother of five who made the courageous decision to seek safety for her family.

For years, her husband struggled with alcohol abuse that led to an aggressive temper. Over time, his behavior became increasingly dangerous: shoving Raquel around, destroying furniture, and driving under the influence with the children in the car.

Determined to protect her children, Raquel bravely took action. Her immediate priority was a restraining order for their safety; then, she wanted a divorce. She visited LAFLA’s Domestic Violence Restraining Order Clinic at the Long Beach Courthouse for help.

With support from LAFLA attorneys and our student clinic at the UCLA School of Law, Raquel prepared her case. Together, we documented the incidents, gathered evidence, and ensured she was ready for her hearing before a judge.

The court granted Raquel a 3-year restraining order and sole custody of the children, with supervised visitation for her husband. The judge also ordered her husband to move out and have no contact with Raquel.

Today, Raquel and her children are safe—and LAFLA continues to support her family through the divorce and rebuilding their lives.