Q: How can I address divorce and custody proceedings in California while ensuring safety in Chicago?

A: You’re in a very difficult position, and it’s understandable to feel afraid and uncertain. Because your husband filed for divorce and custody in California, you must respond within 30 days to avoid losing your right to be heard. You can file your response from Chicago by mail or electronically, and you can request remote participation to avoid traveling back to California. It’s important to explain that you left the state for safety reasons and include any evidence of abuse or threats to support that claim.

You can also ask the California court to transfer or decline jurisdiction under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). This law allows a court to consider your current residence and safety concerns when deciding which state should handle custody matters. Since you already attempted to get an Order of Protection in Illinois, you can try again and show documentation that service issues prevented it from being granted before. Having those audio recordings, messages, or witness statements will help demonstrate the danger you and your child face.

If you don’t have money for an attorney, you can reach out to free legal aid services in both states. Many family courts have self-help centers where you can get forms and instructions. Focus on meeting the 30-day response deadline first, then request that custody and safety issues be reviewed by the court. You are doing the right thing by protecting yourself and your child, and your documentation can help the court understand why returning to California isn’t safe.