Sarah D. v. John D.

OPINION

WINFREE, Justice.

I. INTRODUCTION

Sarah D. and John D. separated shortly after their daughter turned three. Each claimed that the other was abusive and obtained a short-term domestic violence protective order after they separated; they later stipulated to a mutual no-contact order but violated it by continuing a sporadic romantic relationship. They sharply contested numerous domestic violence allegations and generally cast each other in a bad light throughout their divorcee proceedings.

Sarah requested interim attorney's fees. After the superior court denied her request, Sarah consented…