Desperately in need of help iro a Protection Order

Not Being Pedantic But

I really would appreciate any feedback in relation to this matter as I am literally at the end of my tether/ rock bottom in life.

In order to remain anonymous, I can't disclose full details on this forum but I can provide an overview.

I have been served with a Court Summons under the Domestic Violence Act 1996- Section 5- Protection Order.

I have been ordered not to watch or beset the place where the applicant resides (in this case my stepdad who lives with my Mum and Brother) and also not use or threaten to use any violence against, molest or put in fear the above named applicant.

By means of background, my stepdad has physically assaulted me throughout my childhood and my teens until I had to leave. My poor Mum has been psychologically, emotionally and financially abused by this controlling sociopath but thank God never really physically hurt her until recently it's escalating- it is still domestic abuse.

The irony is the one time I confronted him and stood up to him, he went straight to the Gardaí and took a full morning off work (he is self- employed) to go to the District Court to have a Judge sign off on this which is basically a pack of lies and another means to keep my Mum and I away from each other.

He is an evil, controlling, bigoted bully. However still until recently, I loved him and cried myself to sleep if we ever argued as I felt sorry for him and that he may feel guilty- he did not.

I've spent a considerable amount of time in a psychiatric hospital- a fact he uses against me- brainwashing my Gorgeous Mum that I'm the one who is crazy and has lost the plot.

Apologies for rambling on... my question is- do I need to engage a Solicitor to represent me next month when I appear in the District Court? I have a Sol who is currently undertaking the sale of my property as I am up to my eyes in debt but unfortunately (despite client confidentiality/ privilage), he knows my stepdad so despite Chinese Walls and oaths for non- bias, I am reluctant to ask him for advice.

Please help. I had to resign from my job, I'm losing my home, I'm bankrupt beyond belief and have no one to trust but anonymous posters.

Thank you in advance (if anyone can offer advice).

Hope everyone on this forum has a safe and happy evening. Take care, D

nuac

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