Mission
The mission of Methodist Justice Ministry is to provide free legal representation and ongoing support to vulnerable community members impacted by family violence, child abuse, and child neglect.
Our Why
For many survivors of abuse, leaving isn’t just difficult—it can feel impossible.
Without court orders, financial resources, or a strong support network, victims of domestic violence are often trapped in dangerous situations. Sadly, our community is not immune—1 in 3 Texans will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime. The danger is not only long-term, but it can be fatal. Studies by the CDC report that almost half of female homicide victims in the United States are killed by a current or former intimate partner.
Children living in poverty are significantly more likely to experience abuse and neglect as well. The effects of this trauma can be long-lasting, increasing the risk of academic challenges, substance use, depression, and other mental health concerns.
But there is hope and a path forward.
Civil legal action can be life-saving by reducing the risk of continued harm and giving survivors the legal foundation to rebuild their lives safely and independently.
You do not have to face this alone. Safe, compassionate legal help is here.
How We Help
Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit law firm providing pro bono legal representation to survivors of abuse and neglect in Tarrant and Johnson Counties. We serve households earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level—families who often have nowhere else to turn for help.
Our legal services include:
- Protective Orders
- Custody Cases
- Divorce Proceedings
We understand these situations are emotional, overwhelming, and sometimes dangerous. Our team stands beside you every step of the way—providing not only legal representation, but also connecting you to support services including counseling, financial aid, and community resources.
If you need help, call 817-339-2407 to speak with our intake team and learn if you qualify for services
"I love being an attorney at MJM because while we often see the worst of society, we also see the best. We see grandparents, aunts, uncles, and even neighbors, step in to care for children who have been abused. These caregivers are typically at or below the poverty level before taking in additional children, yet do not hesitate to make this huge commitment when asked. We are also able to watch women who have experienced family violence gaining their independence and strength."
— Jodie Connaughton, MJM Legal Director and Attorney
Client Stories
A Mother’s Escape
For 13 years, Danielle and her four children felt trapped in a cycle of abuse.
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For 13 years, Danielle and her four children felt trapped in a cycle of abuse. It didn’t begin that way, but over time, the relationship grew increasingly violent. One especially traumatic incident ended with her abuser being arrested in front of their ten-year-old son.
After he was released from jail, he began to stalk her, and Danielle lived in constant fear. She decided to leave the family’s home with only the bare necessities to find shelter with her children. That’s when a Victim Advocate with the District Attorney’s Office referred her to MJM for family law representation.
“From the first meeting with my attorney, I knew I wasn’t alone anymore. They stood by me through every step of our legal process, from appointments, court hearings, and understanding documents. They even connected us to free counseling, school supplies, and holiday gifts.” -Danielle
The courts granted the family enforceable protections for their safety, and Danielle was empowered with the tools to maintain stability so her children could thrive. They now laugh more and are making the kind of happy memories they once thought were impossible.
“MJM gave us hope when we felt hopeless, opened my world to a community of support, and taught me what a healthy life and relationship look like. While we still have a journey ahead of us, we never would have come this far without MJM. I’m forever grateful.” -Danielle
When Crisis Strikes, Safety is Possible
After the heartbreaking loss of her daughter to cancer, Sharon believed her grandchildren were best in their father’s care. That belief was shattered when she learned that law enforcement arrested him for producing and distributing child pornography.
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After the heartbreaking loss of her daughter to cancer, Sharon believed her grandchildren were best in their father’s care. That belief was shattered when she learned that law enforcement arrested him for producing and distributing child pornography.
Now, the children had no legal guardian and faced foster care placement. Facing the unimaginable realization of what the kids had been exposed to, Sharon turned to MJM for help with taking legal action to protect them.
Her attorney acted immediately, filing for custody and advocating in court for the best interests of the children. Through skilled legal representation and compassionate guidance, Sharon and her husband were able to provide their grandchildren with a nurturing home until they reached adulthood.
“I don’t know what would have happened to my grandkids without MJM. I will be eternally grateful.” – Sharon
A Father’s Love
Julian found MJM after months of praying for a way to protect his children. When he divorced their mother, Julian was granted visits every other weekend by the courts. Unfortunately, during one of those visits, they disclosed they were being physically abused by their mother and her new husband.
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Julian found MJM after months of praying for a way to protect his children. When he divorced their mother, Julian was granted visits every other weekend by the courts. Unfortunately, during one of those visits, they disclosed they were being physically abused by their mother and her new husband.
Julian acted quickly and reported the abuse; however, due to the uncooperation of the offenders, the case was at a standstill. Finally, a social worker encouraged him to modify his custody orders to get quicker results.
MJM worked to secure primary custody for Julian, preventing further harm.
He shared, “For so long, I was so worried about the well-being of the children. I thank God every day for the blessings of MJM. They really took care of my kids and me throughout the entire process.” – Julian
Brighter Futures
Kassi’s life had been one fraught with many difficulties growing up. But when CPS reached out to her, reporting her nephew was exposed to drugs and violence by his parents, she knew she had to do something to break the same cycle she had experienced.
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Kassi’s life had been one fraught with many difficulties growing up. But when CPS reached out to her, reporting her nephew was exposed to drugs and violence by his parents, she knew she had to do something to break the same cycle she had experienced.
Kassi’s sister struggles with substance abuse and untreated mental health issues, which lead to her severely neglecting her son, Aidan.
After the initial voluntary placement of Aidan in Kassi’s home, months went by without evidence of any improvement by his parents. While advocating for Aidan’s educational and medical needs, Kassi found MJM to begin the custody process.
MJM’s dedication not only helped Kassi navigate through the legal complexities of her situation but also gave them hope during a time of great need.
“I will always be thankful for their commitment to ensuring that my nephew’s safety and healing were prioritized, and I am confident that he will now have the brighter future he deserves.” -Kassi
Both Aidan and Kassi attend counseling, addressing both their traumas, learning coping skills, and setting goals for a brighter future.