When Violence Reaches the Bench
When violence reaches a courthouse, it signals more than a security failure—it exposes deeper cracks in trust, accountability, and how justice is experienced by the families forced to navigate it.
When “Family Preservation” Becomes State Neglect
In Washington State, reforms intended to keep families intact may inadvertently leave vulnerable children at risk and offer less protection to parents. Critics argue that higher intervention thresholds compromise safety and accountability, leading to…
The ADA Survival Guide for Family Court
Disabled parents must proactively assert their rights in family court under the ADA to ensure meaningful participation. This guide emphasizes the importance of requesting reasonable accommodations in writing, documenting any exclusion, and understanding…
When Family Court Proceeds Without a Parent, That’s Not “Non-Appearance.” It’s Exclusion.
Jeff Reichert's case highlights how family courts can proceed without a parent, effectively erasing them from the process due to denied accommodations for disabilities. A federal judge acknowledged the need for remote participation under disability law,…
When Schools Become Enforcers: A Lawsuit Claims NYC Used Child Protective Services as Leverage Against a Parent
A New York lawsuit reveals how schools may misuse Child Protective Services (CPS) referrals to coerce non-compliant parents, as demonstrated by a Queens mother’s allegations. This practice, which complicates parental disputes over education, raises…
When the Judge Becomes the Stalker
Judge Bridget Robb of Nevada's Second Judicial District Court resigned amid stalking allegations, which were serious enough to warrant a temporary protection order. This case highlights systemic issues within the judiciary, where accountability is often…
When “Child Protection” Expands the System—but Leaves Children Exposed
Maryland lawmakers are promoting child protection legislation aimed at addressing abuse and neglect. However, critics highlight that these measures increase state power while providing fewer protections for families. Specifically, a bill fails to require…
Why Family Court Has Fewer Due Process Protections
Family court operates with fewer procedural protections than criminal or many civil courts, focusing on resolving private disputes and protecting children. Key differences include no jury trials, relaxed evidence rules, and broad judicial discretion,…
Rebuttable Presumptions vs. the “Best Interest” Standard: What Actually Changes in Custody Law
Lawmakers are increasingly debating custody reforms centered around two main frameworks: the traditional “best interest of the child” standard, which allows judicial discretion, and newer rebuttable presumptions favoring equal parenting, which require…
Equal Parenting Rights in America: Incremental Progress, State by State
In early 2026, the movement for equal parenting rights progresses at the state level in the U.S., with varying legislative reforms. Six states have enacted strong shared parenting laws, fostering incremental changes. Despite ongoing debates about…