Florida Lawmakers Revisit Grandparent Visitation — A Narrow Proposal Raises Big Questions About Family, Courts, and Child Welfare
As Florida approaches its 2026 legislative session, lawmakers are considering SB 674, which would allow grandparents to seek court-ordered visitation under specific tragic circumstances. While intended to protect children's welfare, there are concerns…
The Holiday “Reasonableness” Trap: How Courts Let Compromise Replace Court Orders
Michael Phillips discusses how family courts encourage flexibility during holidays, leading to a detrimental shift from enforceable rights to vague accommodations. Such changes often result in unilateral modifications and normalization of non-compliance.…
Florida Family Courts Under Scrutiny: When Custody Failures Turn Deadly
Florida’s family courts are facing renewed scrutiny after a series of deadly custody-related domestic violence cases in Broward County. An investigative report highlights how warning signs were missed, enforcement failed, and reforms like Greyson’s Law…
The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom.
Los Angeles and San Diego officials are withholding public records related to the arrest and prosecution of Giselle Farias Smiel, raising concerns about transparency and due process. This refusal undermines public trust in law enforcement and the justice…
The Most Dangerous Court in America Is the One No One Teaches You How to Survive
Family court in America allows significant losses for parents—children, homes, and finances—without criminal accusations or safeguards. Parents often enter naively, expecting fairness, only to encounter a biased system. Both represented and…
The Psychiatric Weapon: How Mental Health Was Turned into a Weapon of Control
California's family courts exploit psychological diagnoses to control parents, particularly those with ADHD and PTSD. Brenna Gano's experience illustrates how evaluators and therapists profit within a closed loop of referrals and prescribed therapies.…
Maryland Judges Required to Reveal Their Finances — But How Public Is “Public”?
Maryland's judges must file annual financial disclosure statements by April 30, detailing assets and potential conflicts of interest. While intended for transparency, the process lacks public accessibility, requiring specific requests for access to…
From Custody to Conviction: The Nicholas Hall Case and the High Cost of Family-Court Weaponization
Nicholas Hall, a devoted father, is serving a 21-year sentence for crimes he and his family assert were fabricated during a contentious custody battle. Supporters claim systemic failures in the family court allowed wrongful conviction, citing selective…
Inside People v. Smiel: When Process Becomes the Story
Giselle Smiel faces five felony charges, including kidnapping, after picking up her child at a San Diego school. Her defense argues that the charges lack legal basis due to improper venue and insufficient evidence. Concerns about ADA violations and a…
Maryland Family Courts vs. Invisible Disabilities: Rights Denied, Families Punished
In Maryland, family courts often fail to protect children and parental rights, treating invisible disabilities as reasons to deny custody. Judges and opposing parties exploit these disabilities, leading to severe consequences for affected parents. The…