Legal systems are essential for protecting mothers and their children from domestic violence, but for many, navigating these systems can feel overwhelming and uncertain. Mothers who are black, brown, immigrant, earn low wages, or live with a disability often face additional barriers that make accessing justice even more challenging. At YWCA Metro St. Louis, we see firsthand the courage it takes to pursue safety and stability, and we are committed to walking alongside survivors at every step.
Missouri law provides vital protections for children and parents, requiring courts to consider any history of domestic violence when making custody and visitation decisions. There is a legal presumption that awarding custody to an abusive parent is not in the child’s best interest, which allows judges to impose supervised visitation or restrict contact if necessary for safety.[1] Despite these protections, survivors frequently encounter obstacles, including restrictive divorce laws that prevent finalizing a divorce during pregnancy without a custody agreement, prolonging potentially dangerous situations.[2] [3] These legal frameworks are intended to protect, yet they can also create additional stress and uncertainty for mothers already navigating trauma.
For many survivors, the barriers to justice extend beyond the law itself. Financial constraints, lack of clear information, language differences, and systemic bias can all impede access to legal protections.[4] Marginalized mothers, in particular, may struggle to secure legal support or feel hesitant to engage with systems that have historically failed them. The process of seeking protective orders, attending custody hearings, or navigating civil and criminal court proceedings can be daunting, making supportive guidance and advocacy crucial.
Baylee Mammenga, Community Education & Outreach Specialist at YWCA Metro St. Louis, who works closely with survivors in both civil and criminal cases, reflects, “Legal systems can feel intimidating and overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating trauma. Our role is to help survivors understand their rights, access the protections they deserve, and feel supported every step of the way. Justice isn’t just about laws—it’s about safety, dignity, and reclaiming control.”
YWCA Metro St. Louis offers legal advocacy, case management, and education to help mothers navigate complex legal systems while prioritizing their safety and well-being. Our staff guide survivors through protective order processes, custody hearings, and referrals to legal aid services, partnering with public defenders and community organizations to reduce barriers and empower mothers to make informed decisions. This support is grounded in trauma-informed care, cultural responsiveness, and a commitment to restoring a sense of agency to every individual we serve.
Ensuring justice for mothers is not only about legal outcomes—it is about creating the foundation for safety, stability, and healing for entire families. Support YWCA Metro St. Louis by donating to fund legal advocacy and supportive services. Sharing YWCA’s 24/7 Help Line (314-531-7273) so those in need can find help. Advocate for policy reforms that remove systemic barriers for survivors in Missouri. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed and engaged in community action. Together, we can help mothers reclaim safety and dignity, protect their children, and build futures free from violence.
[1] Finder Law. The Impact of Domestic Violence on Child Custody in Missouri. 2025.
[2] SK Law. Divorce While Pregnant in Missouri Explained. 2025.
[3] Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCADSV). 2025 Missouri Legislative Session Final Report (2025, June 8). 2025.
[4] Gutowski, E. R. Intimate Partner Violence, Legal Systems, and Barriers for African American Women. National Center for Biotechnology Information. 2022.
ABOUT YWCA:
YWCA Metro St. Louis is the region’s leading advocate for the safety, security and stability of women and children, serving nearly 10,000 women and families annually. The mission of YWCA is eliminating racism and empowering women. YWCA offers crisis services and rapid re-housing for victims of sexual and domestic violence; services for pregnant women, Head Start and Early Head Start early childhood education; career readiness and economic empowerment services for all clients; and racial justice educational programs.