My ex signed the final divorce papers, all it needs is my signature Monday, no court for me,

He doesn't want his very wealthy family dragged if he admits in open court to hitting me and our ten month old -

The only time he's ever hit any other person, since he's too much of a coward, he cried when the police had him in cuffs the morning after he hit me and snuck back in the window. He sobbed. He was "afraid id hit him back" which is why he fled. Cops stare at him and he adds, "uh and afraid of being arrested." Silence.

One year mandatory waiting period, done. Full custody to me, done. No visitation without going through court channels after completing DV course, anger management, personal counseling, and a recommendation from a 1 on 1 therapist. Maximum child support, not that I asked for tons, because I wasn't after his money. Ever. He often tries to bring by "gifts" and leave them, presumably to feel better about himself?

Judge will finalize on the 15th! A whole year since I walked into an attorney's office on our wedding anniversary. Hah.

Ladies,

Make sure the first time a man hits you or your child is the last time. My lawyer encouraged me to purchase a firearm. My lawyer also specializes in DV cases since his best friends mother was killed by the father in front of the children. His friend was the only survivor.

It's been hard, it was all incredibly shocking, there were no signs of violence leading up to it. That I have come to learn means you treat it even more seriously if it happens to you. Because it's the extreme form of total emotional behavior combined with absolute lack of self control and there is no way to stay safe around someine who admits they themselves never "ever thought they'd do that ever" If he can't control himself, There is nothing you can do to stay safe besides to leave.

First time is the last time. Period.

My son will be raised with joy and happiness and encouragement, Not fear. Or instability.

I did it. It's hard as hell. Mostly it's hard to lose a person that never existed in the first place and admit to yourself you were making excuses when you deserve to have someone making a future with you.