Planning Your Exit: How to Stay Safe When Leaving an Abusive Relationship

If you or someone you know is in danger, confidential help is available 24/7.

Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit thehotline.org for live chat and resources.

Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the most difficult and dangerous decisions a person can make.

In this video, attorney Christa Adkins explains how to recognize patterns of abuse, create a personalized safety plan, and take careful steps to protect yourself and your children when it’s time to leave.

We discuss warning signs of physical, emotional, financial, and digital abuse, and how isolation and control can escalate over time. You’ll learn why it’s important to document incidents safely, identify trusted friends and family, and know where you can go in an emergency before you act. Our divorce lawyers and child custody lawyers outline how protective orders, temporary custody, and emergency court filings may work in domestic violence situations, and why your safety should always come before any legal strategy.

We also emphasize that confidential help is available 24/7: you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit thehotline.org for live chat and resources. This video is designed to give you information and options—not to replace the individualized safety planning and support that advocates, counselors, and legal professionals can provide. If you or someone you love is living with abuse, know that you are not alone and that there is a path toward safety, stability, and a future beyond abuse.

📞 Schedule Your FREE Consultation

Call 800-479-8124 or visit our website to speak with a Client Services Coordinator today: https://www.melonelawpc.com/contact/

Follow Melone Hatley:

Facebook: / melonehatleypc

Instagram: / melonehatley

Twitter: / melonelaw

TikTok: / melonehatley

LinkedIn: / melone-hatley-p-c

YouTube: / @melonehatleypc

As a partner for our clients, we earn our REVIEWS

Read Reviews

Client Testimonials

“I had an excellent experience working with this firm. From the very first consultation, their team was professional, responsive, and genuinely cared about my case. They took the time to explain everything in detail, kept me informed throughout the process, and made sure I understood my options.”

E.M.

“Lelan is one of the hardest-working people I know. He pays close attention to every detail and always brings a positive attitude. He genuinely wants to see others succeed and goes out of his way to support those around him. Truly a standout professional and person.”

C.I.

“Ms. Sloan was amazing to work with, her bubbly personality makes what I’m going through a bit easier. She truly cares to help and break it down for my brain. Would definitely recommend!”

T.H.

“Cassidy Millard is extremely knowledgeable and I couldn’t trust another to handle such delicate cases. As a mother you want to know you have another mom on your side ready to take action when needed. I have and will continue to recommend her to all friends and family”

A.M.

“Mr. Chang is a detailed, professional, knowledgeable attorney. He will sit you down and go over all the little things that will help with the case. He is patient and will answer all the questions you may have. Highly recommended.”

N.N.

“Abigail Hockett was proactive for my case, quick to respond to any questions I had, very understanding also realistic. Now she’s working on another case for me and I know she’ll do great.”

V.H.

“Julia has been a great lawyer for me during this tough time going through my divorce. She has given great legal advice every step of the way and the timeliness of her responses has been great.”

T.R.

“My wife and I were extremely pleased with the level of care and expertise given to us by Melone Hatley, P.C.”

M.A.

“I highly recommend Melone Hatley. The staff that I have been exposed to are extremely helpful and knowledgeable.”

M.H.

“They were so friendly and attentive to the matter I brought to them. I wasn’t just treated like ‘another case’. It felt like they actually cared about me and the outcome of the matter I brought to them. The positive results they got me obviously were the best part!”

Search