When Laura’s husband, Ron, strangled her during an assault, she feared for her life and the safety of her children. Ron was arrested and charged with a third-degree felony: assault by impeding breath or circulation. Laura quickly obtained a Protective Order to shield herself, her two sons, and her sister—but she also knew she needed to take the next step to secure long-term safety and stability.
That’s when Laura turned to Lone Star Legal Aid. With support from Paralegal Nicola Ostlund and guidance from Staff Attorney Cheranda Robertson, she filed for divorce and custody. Ostlund helped draft and file the pleadings to begin the case and ensured Ron was properly served. When Ron failed to respond, the team prepared to move forward with a default judgment.
But on the eve of Laura’s court date, Robertson learned that Ron’s criminal sentencing would take place in the same courtroom at the same time. His presence threatened to derail Laura’s case, potentially delaying it for months or even years if he chose to contest the divorce. “Laura was distraught and scared about what might happen and having to see Ron in person again,” Robertson recalled.
Rather than let this setback stall Laura’s case, Robertson quickly adapted. She drafted an Agreed Final Decree of Divorce and personally negotiated with Ron in court. Her persistence paid off: Ron signed the agreement, allowing Laura to finalize her divorce and custody case that same day.
The settlement Robertson secured was exceptionally favorable for Laura. It included:
“This is probably the most favorable settlement agreement I’ve obtained for a client,” Robertson said. “I worked hard to carefully craft terms that would be enforceable, protective, and beneficial for Laura and her son—not just now but for years to come.”
Thanks to LSLA’s support, Laura and her son were able to finalize their case before the holidays. For the first time in years, they could celebrate Christmas in peace and look toward the New Year with hope.
*Name(s) have been changed to protect the client’s identity.
Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit law firm focused on advocacy for low-income populations by providing free legal education, advice, and representation. LSLA serves millions of people at 125% of federal poverty guidelines, who live in 72 counties in the eastern and Gulf Coast regions of Texas, and 4 counties in Southwest Arkansas. To learn more about Lone Star Legal Aid, visit our website at www.LoneStarLegal.org.
Media contact: media@lonestarlegal.org