When the Court Helps Families Heal: Why West Virginia’s Family Treatment Courts Matter
West Virginia's Family Treatment Court program, crucial for helping parents with substance use disorders reunite with their children, faces funding challenges as federal grants expire. The Supreme Court requests $1.4 million to ensure its continuation…
Selective Enforcement
Family court orders often lack consistent enforcement, creating a two-tier system where compliance burdens the harmed parent. Violating parties can evade consequences, particularly those with resources, leading to a normalization of noncompliance. This…
Oregon Lawmaker Reintroduces Foster Youth Rights Bill After Gov. Kotek’s Veto
Oregon has reintroduced a foster youth “bill of rights” aimed at establishing standards for children in foster care, after a previous veto by Governor Kotek due to concerns over costs and feasibility. Supporters advocate for accountability, while critics…
Virginia Senate Vote Raises New Concerns for Parents’ Medical Decision-Making Rights
A narrow Virginia Senate vote has alarmed parents concerned about diminishing roles in their children's medical care. Senate Democrats blocked an amendment emphasizing parental consent for serious medical procedures. Parents worry about increasing…
When a Parent Acts to Protect: A North Carolina Case of Accountability, Separation, and Rebuilding
Sarah Taylor filed for divorce from her husband, Justin Tawse Brigham, following his arrest on serious felony charges related to alleged sexual crimes against a minor. The divorce reflects Taylor’s immediate decision to protect their child and stabilize…
When Custody Decisions Turn Deadly: What the Champlin Case Reveals About Family Court Blind Spots
A devastating custody-related tragedy in Minnesota exposes a critical blind spot in family court: what happens to children in the dangerous hours after a high-conflict custody ruling, when emotional collapse meets legal finality.
Temporary Orders Aren’t Temporary
Temporary orders in family court, often seen as short-term solutions, can significantly impact long-term outcomes. They establish the status quo, create perceptions of stability, and shift the burden of proof, making changes difficult later. Parents must…
California’s Joint Divorce Law Is a Quiet but Meaningful Family Court Reform
California's new joint petition law allows married couples and domestic partners to file for divorce or separation together, promoting cooperation over conflict. Effective January 1, 2026, this reform aims to lower costs, reduce adversarial tension, and…
Broward County Tests a New Model for Family Court Accountability—Will It Actually Help Parents and Children?
Broward County's family court has introduced a pilot program to enhance enforcement of court orders, addressing frequent compliance issues that affect families in crisis. By providing tracking, support, and clear accountability, the initiative aims to…
Florida Bill Targets a Quiet Family Court Problem: Punishing Parents for Legal Medical Care
A proposed Florida bill aims to protect parents who use medical marijuana from having their custody or visitation rights unfairly restricted. The legislation asserts that medical marijuana use should not automatically be deemed harmful, requiring…