My relative is emerging from a 25 year marriage where she was subjected to clear as day coercive control.
She has tried mediation to reach a financial settlement but, after 4 expensive sessions, it is clear he isn't engaging in good faith and, worse, using the mediation process as a way to continue gaslighting and controlling her.
We are realising this is not good for her mental health, nor will it achieve a fair settlement.
My question is: how does a woman who has experienced this type of abuse, and does not have a much money, afford to get divorced if she cannot choose the most cost effective route of mediation? How do women in this position do it?
She feels trapped, which is how she has felt for 25 years and how he probably wants her to still feel now.
What advice would you give to help her escape and be free?