I speak to a lawyer about requesting a psychiatric evaluation, with the goal of potentially changing the custody parameters to protect my children.

My experience:

After the judge orders the evaluation, my ex presents himself as a model father, calm and rational. He contests everything I say and accuses me of trying to sabotage his relationship with the children. The expert who administers the evaluation concludes that this is a “coparenting conflict.” I’m shocked. Even the court is on his side!

Explanation:

The victim in this scenario acted bravely, but still feels betrayed by the system. Psychological abuse can continue post-separation under various forms: abusive litigation, twisting the facts, using institutions to invalidate the victim, etc.

This project was funded by the Government of Quebec/Secrétariat à la condition féminine.