DV- pleaded not guilty-to attend trial

[secular89]

Hello all,

Had to NC as this is very outing.

I was with my ex for 9 years- always has been physically and emotionally abusive. Last year, he assaulted me in my parents house and in front of my child. I was left with a black bruised eye for two weeks, had to attend hospital for a brain scan. No internal injuries, thank God.

I got an restraining order and agreed with police to get him charged. He was on bail conditions, but failed to attend to one of his bail hearings (?). Hence, police were not able to locate him and a warrant was out for his arrest.

I was getting on with my life. I have finished my Masters degree, being there for my child and I have secured my first job. Did not hear from my ex. However, three weeks ago, I received a call from the police, telling me that they have found my ex and would attend a bail hearing a week prior. Today, I just received a phone call that my ex has pleaded not guilty and I have to attend court in two weeks. The police also said that they would like the family member to attend as she was a witness. But knowing her, she won't go through with it and I cannot place that in her head.

I'm in two minds. I don't know if I want to attend court. I was getting on with my life, not a care for him, not thinking of him and now this- I don't know what to do.. what to expect. My ex has dangerous friends and I'm worried that they will come after me.
I don't understand why he pleaded non-guilty and he has always pleaded guilty. I don't know what to do? What do I tell me new job? What should I expect when I go to court?

[thorforever]

Well done OP.

The victim impact statement will be read out on your behalf by the prosecutor at the sentencing hearing.

Contact the prosecution though and ask them to confirm it's on the file and that it's noted that there is one in this case.

I would also ask the prosecutor to sent it to the probation service.

[dublingirl66]

Just to say well done
You are clearly very strong to continue with this

I remember for a long time I refused to listen to anyone who said press charges
My main aim was to protect him
Make sure he was ok etc

Haha that didn't work v well

Off to hopefully see him jailed soon

Sending you lots of hugs ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[BlueThistles]

you did great OP 🌺

[saraclara]

I've only just read this whole thread. Reading it in one go, I am SO glad you found the strength to attend. I was predicting that he'd plead guilty if you did. Well done!

Assuming that your victim statement will be read out by someone at sentencing, I don't think there's any need for you to go.