Reclaiming Safety: A Survivor’s Story of Legal Help and Hope
For much of her life, Leandra suffered abuse at the hands of someone she was supposed to feel safe with. She endured mental and physical abuse in her marriage. Leandra’s fight for change began as a woman trying to survive within a dangerously toxic environment. When her children became the object of abuse, however, her fight turned into something more: reclaiming control over her life and creating a safer future for her family.
Leandra’s escape was much more complex than the simple act of packing suitcases and walking out of her front door. Leandra was faced with several daunting legal challenges that she had no idea how to navigate. She found herself a woman with five children, limited financial means, and a lot of mental trauma that presented a less-than-easy departure.
At the time of seeking assistance, Leandra realized that ending the marriage meant navigating divorce proceedings while also dealing with uncertainty around parental responsibility, time-sharing, and how she and her children would begin their journey of healing from what they’d experienced.
Even with all the uncertainties and doubts looming over Leandra like a cloud, she took the courageous step of asking for help.
“My advice for anyone dealing with domestic violence is to not give up,” Leandra says. “There are resources and organizations that are available to help you like the ones at Community Legal Services. It’s okay to be scared but find the courage and take that first step. There is light at the end of the tunnel.”
Community Legal Services (CLS) worked alongside her as she navigated the legal process, helping her conclude her divorce and obtaining sole parental responsibility and time-sharing.
While Leandra’s experience is deeply personal, domestic violence is not an isolated issue. Her story is actually a reflection of a much larger, systemic crisis.
Each October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month brings national attention to the millions of people affected by intimate partner violence and the resources available to help them. According to the CDC, over 9 million people (both men and women) in the United States experience sexual violence, physical abuse and stalking by an intimate partner each year. The Justice Gap Report highlights that, while 98% of low-income domestic violence survivors experience at least one legal issue (housing, custody, finances), only 29% of that number seek legal help.
Leandra expresses that the journey didn’t end with divorce. It took additional community resources like mental health counseling and financial assistance from various community partners to ensure a healthy environment for her and her children
Beyond knowing these issues exist within our communities and raising awareness, it is critical that community organizations collaborate with one another. A survivor may need emergency shelter today, mental health counseling tomorrow, and legal assistance the next day as challenges involving divorce, custody, and housing began to emerge. No single organization can—and should not be expected to—meet every need of a survivor alone.
That is why being connected to vital partnerships throughout Central Florida is critical in leading residents to the right help when they need it most. Community Legal Services is grateful for its community partnerships throughout its service areas. One collaborative organization in particular, is Lotus Marion located in Marion County, FL. Our longstanding partnership with Lotus Marion and similar organizations, allows for seamless client referrals, ensuring survivors receive holistic support.
Lotus Marion provides specialized services for domestic violence and sexual assault, while CLS provides eligible residents with no-cost civil legal assistance. By working together, we’re able to build pathways between two vital resources addressing the needs of our community beyond the courtroom.
“At Lotus Marion, we know that survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault often face complex challenges that extend beyond immediate safety concerns,” says Lotus Marion Director of Outreach and Prevention Alison Vazquez. “Strong partnerships with organizations like Community Legal Services and other legal aid providers create a safety net that empowers survivors with the advocacy, guidance, and support they deserve on their path toward healing and independence.”
In 2025, Community Legal Services assisted over 7,200 survivors of domestic violence with legal services including injunctions, divorce, and housing. Maintaining partnerships with community organizations throughout Marion County means we are consistently able to receive client referrals, helping people who have a critical need after leaving a domestic violence or sexual assault situation.
The woman at the center of this story made the brave decision to seek help. Even in moments when she wanted to give up, she continued fighting through a difficult legal process. She advocated for herself and her children—and through that determination, coupled with legal advocacy and other support, she was able to gain greater safety and autonomy for herself and her family.
Stories like Leandra’s are a reminder of why Domestic Violence Awareness Month matters. It’s an opportunity to recognize the prevalence of abuse, but also to make sure survivors know that they don’t have to fight these challenges alone. There is a community of organizations throughout Central Florida that are collaborating every day to support survivors. We want to encourage residents to take the first step in seeking help today. If you need legal assistance, you may contact Community Legal Services by completing an online intake form or call 1-800-405-1417.