Planning to Leave

If you are planning to leave your abuser, ask yourself the following questions:

· How and when can you most safely leave? Where will you go?

· Are you comfortable calling the police if you need them?

· Who can you trust to tell that you are leaving?

· How will you travel safely to and from work or school or to pick up children?

· What community and legal resources will help you feel safer? Write down their addresses and phone numbers, and keep them handy.

· Do you know the number of the local shelter?

· What custody and visitation provisions will keep you and your children safe?

· Is an order of protection or restraining order a viable option?