Seeking justice

Three years ago I started a post on this forum asking for advice as I was thinking about reporting my abusers to the police (if you want to, search the forum for the word 'police' and you'll find it).

A lot has happened since then - I've pulled myself together and reported what happened. Three video interviews later, many informal 'chats' since, many lows and some not-so-lows later and I've finally found out that the case is going to court.

The one abuser who is still alive has been charged with 15 offenses - he's done it before, been in jail before, now even changed his name as he's been in the news locally.

Now the external wait is coming to an end - November 2025. Might seem like miles away, but given I've been waiting more than 3 years already, I've become used to it, in a strange way.

I know I'm still compartmentalizing and subconsciously avoiding thinking about going to court in November, as the few times I do let my mind go there, it's hard to get back to whatever approaches normal. That said, I'm fortunate enough to have a really good therapist, someone I've bonded with, someone I trust.

I know there will be dark times ahead - handling the most difficult situation alongside 'normal' life without any script telling me how to behave, how to respond, how to feel.

So why did I write this post? Who am I writing this post for?

To all who have considered whether you are tough enough to seek justice - you are!

To all who wonder whether there is support to help you through this process - there is!

To all who need justice to have their voice heard - come forward!

It is not simple, not straightforward nor swift, but you have the right to access justice and to have your voice heard. I don't claim to be stronger than anybody else, there's nothing special about me or my situation. But if I can do this, then I'm hopeful my few words might help you one day to have your truth heard.

Yes, starting this process was entirely my decision. Yes, the process is not for everyone. But do I regret it? No. Absolutely not. It is what I need, no matter how long it takes.

Grits