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Client Story: Privacy for a Domestic Violence Survivor

A victim of domestic abuse reaches out when her new identity and address become public record, threatening her safety.

Decades ago, I was a single parent and was not able to afford attorneys. I went through an assault and kidnapping ordeal. My abuser was given the minimum sentence for what he did to me. I had to get a new identity so he wouldn't find me and my children — because he swore to me that he would find me. I had to go through years of therapy, and I’ve worked two to three jobs to be able to support my children and to keep busy. I moved to another city and started a new life where I’ve been doing well.


Years later my mother passed away and she did not leave a will. One of my siblings filed an affidavit of heirship that included my birth name as well as my new name from my new identity. Although I never signed the affidavit of heirship and did not want it to be filed, my new identity and address became public record. I was terrified that my abuser would be able to find me because of this.


I called Texas Legal Services Center seeking help and they were able to have my name and address removed from the public records. I don’t know what I would’ve done if they hadn’t been there for me, so I owe them so much.

I called Texas Legal Services Center seeking help and they were able to have my name and address removed from the public records. I don’t know what I would’ve done if they hadn’t been there for me, so I owe them so much. I’ve come a long way, especially mentally, and the safety of my children and grandchildren is my priority. I know this organization has done a lot for children and women like me, and I am indebted to them for all they have done. Because of them and what they did for me, I feel safe once again.




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