No Longer Looking Over My Shoulder
- by Susan, a PBN/LAF client
- Jun 8, 2015
- 3 min read
I wanted to share my story with everyone in regards to my experience with Donna Peel and Ryan McCready and their representation of my case. I was going through a very nasty break-up. We were engaged and I finally realized that I did not want to be part of this relationship. It was abusive and I was miserable and I just could not imagine myself marrying this man for the rest of my life. After our breakup, the drama began. Stalking, property damage, and attempts to scare me . . .
I was scared…. scared to death. I did not know what he was capable of doing. I slept with mace, a knife, and a wooden pole next to my bed. The slightest of sounds, I awoke in a panic. I called in about a million police reports (at least that is how it felt). He was arrested once and I pressed charges, but that did not stop the behavior. After that, every time the police came, they could not help me…. I did not have proof…I did not see him with my own eyes. To me, it seemed that they treated this as no big deal.
When I went to court for the charges for his arrest, I was informed that they had a service for domestic violence victims. Not only did they have services, they had services free of charge if I qualified for it. I could not believe what I was hearing. I did not have the extra income to afford a lawyer and I thought I needed one to pursue an Order of Protection from the Court. When I found out that I was approved for the services, I was over the moon. I finally felt like this nightmare was going to come to an end!
The first meeting I had with Donna and Ryan was very encouraging. They were so nice and really listened to my story. For once, SOMEONE WAS LISTENING TO MY STORY. I felt like every time I called the police, they were treating me like I was the one committing these crimes. Donna and Ryan listened to every word I had to say and truly empathized with me. And on top of that, they made me feel comfortable. There were things that I shared with them that were extremely embarrassing and confidential and not at any moment did I feel like I was being judged.
We met a few more times before we went to court. The day finally came. I was very nervous. I did not know if he was going to show up with a lawyer or what his situation was. I did not realize all of the preparation that goes into trying to get an Order of Protection. You would think with all the police reports and his arrest, the Court would just grant the Order, but that is not how it works. I was ready! I was ready to stand up for myself and show him he COULD NOT run my life and I WOULD NOT continue, for one more day, living my life in fear!
His lawyer was late….very late. I was a ball of emotions and nervousness. FINALLY, the lawyer arrived. Donna, Ryan, and his lawyer met to try to reach an agreement. All I wanted was the Order to be granted and avoid a hearing. Telling my story in front of an entire court room, especially at such a vulnerable time, I was not the most excited for. So I was happy that they could settle….and I WON!
I honestly do not know what I would have done without Donna and Ryan. There was no possible way I could afford a lawyer and I doubt I would have been able to proceed with the Order of Protection. These two MADE THIS POSSIBLE. They gave me my freedom back. They allowed me to be able to get sleep at night and not look over my shoulder every single second. Granted, I still do, just to be safe, but knowing that I have that Order just makes me feel that much more safe. I honestly thank these two and the agency from the bottom of my heart for all of their hard work and dedication. Without you, I do not know where I would be right now. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, for being amazing individuals who are truly making a difference in this world. The world needs more people just like you.
PBN Note: This courthouse would not have any free lawyers if it were not for the work of our our partners and all of our financial supporters. PBN provides the attorneys while intake, training and technical expertise are provided by LAF of Metropolitan Chicago and Sarah's Inn. We are grateful to Susan for sharing her experience! Donate HERE.
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