Real Reviews
Knoxville, TN
I came to the Family Justice Center looking for help as a domestic violence survivor who is also dealing with an interstate custody crisis. Unfortunately, my experience has been extremely disappointing and has left me feeling even more unsupported during a time when I urgently needed advocacy. Despite multiple intakes, phone calls, and attempts to explain the seriousness of my situation — including ongoing threats, safety concerns, and the need for help preparing for a DV-related court hearing — I was never actually connected with a consistent advocate or attorney. I repeatedly had to retell my story, was often told to “call elsewhere,” and felt that the severity of what I was experiencing was minimized or treated like a low priority. Even after being told I qualified for help under VAWA, no meaningful assistance ever materialized. Meanwhile, the opposing party was able to obtain free counsel very quickly, while I am left preparing for a dangerous and complicated DVRO hearing completely alone. I do not have the resources to hire multiple private attorneys, and I relied on the Family Justice Center because they are advertised as the place where survivors can finally get real help. Instead, I felt like I fell through the cracks. I truly hope that the Center improves its follow-through, communication, and support for survivors who are navigating both domestic violence and child-custody matters. People seek out the Family Justice Center because they are scared, isolated, and trying to protect themselves and their children. Being sent in circles or told to try other agencies is not trauma-informed care and leaves victims feeling even more vulnerable. I am sharing this review not out of anger, but out of honesty. Survivors deserve systems that take them seriously, listen to them, and follow through on the services they say they provide.
