I am planning on divorcing my husband...

Q: I am planning on divorcing my husband and have a 2.5 year old daughter together. I will like to file for custody of our daughter

I have been married now for 4 years and been together with my husband for now 7 years. We have had a very abusive controlling relationship. Like all the battered women, I was hoping with love and kindness it would go away and has not. And I am preparing myself for divorce. Now I use to and plan on moving back overseas once this marriage is done and would like to have my daughter for majority if the time if possible. I'm not working currently so I don't know how that effects my chances but my husband has had alcohol and drug related problems and don't want to use it if I don't have to. He has threaten me many times saying he will kill anyone who takes our daughter away from him and he is the type to follow. What can I do to protect myself and also get my daughter?

A: You need to get help from a family law attorney. The court obviously will decide based on what is in the best interest of the child. All others are factors which can influence the judge's thinking but it is better be done with solid proof and a lawyer's persuasion.