Every year, October reminds us that behind many closed doors, families are suffering in silence. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is not only a time to honor survivors and remember those lost, but also a call to action for communities to raise awareness, offer support, and ensure families know their legal options.
As a Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS) and Certified Child Welfare Law Specialist (CWLS), I’ve worked with countless individuals who didn’t realize they had a way out—or didn’t believe they had the strength to take it. The fear of being alone, losing custody, or upending a family can feel paralyzing. But the law provides protections, and no one should have to choose between their safety and their family’s future.
Through my “Talk to Tiffany” approach, I help clients navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Whether it’s filing for a domestic violence restraining order (DVRO), requesting emergency custody, or ensuring children are kept safe from exposure to harm, the first step is education and empowerment. You have rights. And you are not alone.
The lead-up to the holidays can make leaving feel even harder. Many victims stay silent through November and December for the sake of their children or to avoid disrupting family gatherings. But what I remind clients is this: the holidays can be a time for healing, too. A season of change, not fear.
Legal protections in California are designed to safeguard survivors of intimate partner violence, stalking, abuse, and threats. In family court, judges can issue emergency orders, modify custody schedules, and provide supervised visitation to ensure the child’s well-being remains the top priority.
If you or someone you know is in an unsafe situation, reach out. Talk to a trusted friend, a therapist, or an attorney. There are resources available—many free—and people ready to help you build a safer path forward.
The journey is not easy. But with the right support, families can break cycles of harm, restore their sense of agency, and move toward a future filled with stability and peace.
Tiffany L. Andrews is a family law attorney serving Northern California. She specializes in custody, divorce, and child support cases, offering dedicated legal support for families navigating significant transitions. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www.tlalawoffice.com or call 916-790-8440.
