Q: I was recently the victim of domestic violence last month at the hands of my boyfriend and gave a statement to police
Along with pictures of my injuries and text messages back-and-forth. At the same time, I am also in a very nasty custody battle with my ex-husband. I learned today that his attorney somehow got a hold of every single police report, statement, text message, picture, interviews with my family, everything that took place over the past 2 1/2 months that the abuse was occurring, his attorney has all of it! He claimed it’s the right to know law in Pennsylvania . But when I researched the law, it seems like there were quite a few violations because they received such private information. Is this illegal for them to use against me in a completely different case? Is it illegal for them to have received all of that information? And, as a victim of domestic violence, do I have rights especially since sitting down and making a statement in exact graphic detail, was with the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do! Our child custody hearing is next Wed. they are painting me to be a terrible
A: You are in a difficult spot. As long as you are doing what you can to move forward with your life, do not panic. Get support from agencies such as crime victims and get an attorney who understands domestic violence to represent you in custody. Custody courts are concerned that the kids are safe. You have already done the hard work of giving a statement. Just commit to the follow through and good luck.
Kathryn Hilbush agrees with this answer
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