The Standard Nobody Can Escape
The Maine Supreme Court's ruling in Bickford v. Bradeen clarified family court authority over disputes, particularly regarding a child's religious upbringing. It rejected previously required heightened scrutiny and established that courts can apply a…
The Wall Nobody Sees: How “Quasi-Judicial Immunity” Shields Family Court Officials Nationwide
Annelise Rice's civil rights lawsuit against various professionals involved in her custody case was dismissed due to quasi-judicial immunity. The judge acknowledged her suffering but ruled that accountability for bad decisions in family courts is…
What to the Parent Is the Fourth of July?
On America's 250th birthday, Michael Phillips critiques the family court system, arguing it fails to protect parental rights, a fundamental liberty. He highlights discrepancies in legal protections between parents and individuals in criminal cases,…
No Transcript, No Appeal, No Accountability: How the Court Reporter Crisis Is Erasing Family Court Records
Millions of family court hearings are being conducted without reliable transcripts, leaving parents unable to challenge judicial errors on appeal. A New York case has exposed a crisis that extends far beyond one courtroom.
Now You Know, Pete
Pete Buttigieg shared a harrowing experience with Child Protective Services following a false allegation, emphasizing the emotional toll of such encounters. While he was quickly vindicated, he highlighted that many parents endure prolonged struggles…
Marriage Equality Matters. So Does Family Court Equality.
Michael Phillips reflects on the Supreme Court's Obergefell v. Hodges ruling, which established marriage rights for all but highlights the shortcomings of family courts. These courts lack procedural safeguards, leading to disproportionate consequences…
The System Let Her Down First
Aaron Spencer's murder case was dismissed because critical evidence was mishandled. But the larger question remains: why was a man accused of dozens of child sex offenses able to violate a no-contact order and reconnect with his alleged victim in the…
Texas, Parental Rights, and the Expanding Power of the State
A recent opinion piece highlights concerns over child welfare investigations in Texas, emphasizing the need to balance child protection with parental rights. The aggressive state actions can erode constitutional protections, particularly when acting on…
The Silence of the Brave: How Nancy Schaefer’s Death Unmasked a Web of Government Corruption Beyond CPS
When Georgia State Senator Nancy Schaefer dared to expose the cash-for-kids corruption inside Child Protective Services, she uncovered more than bureaucratic mismanagement—she revealed a government-funded machine incentivized to destroy families. Months…
Tennessee’s County-Level Gun Relinquishment Fix Highlights a Larger Due Process Debate
Tennessee is implementing changes to firearm transfer documentation for individuals with domestic violence convictions or protection orders, aiming to close loopholes and improve compliance. While advocates highlight the need for stricter enforcement,…