Silence as Strategy
The article discusses how selective silence in family court is often overlooked as a form of control. It emphasizes that this non-response blocks communication and coordination, creating power imbalances. Courts tend to trivialize silence, failing to…
The Language Trap
Family court often misinterprets ordinary words, leading to detrimental consequences for parents. The article emphasizes how linguistic nuances can transform innocent language into indicators of risk, thus affecting custody decisions. Parents must grasp…
Would HB 336 Have Stopped the Cycle?
Reichert v. Hornbeck highlights the detrimental effects of false accusations in custody disputes, emphasizing systemic failures within Maryland's criminal procedure. Each unsubstantiated allegation against Jeff Reichert led to repeated arrests without…
Accountability and Professionalism in Family Law: Lessons from a Baltimore County Disbarment
The Maryland Supreme Court disbarred divorce lawyer Judith Marie Hamilton for abandoning a client, mishandling funds, and failing to cooperate with investigations. This case highlights the need for ethical conduct in family law, stressing that lawyers…
The Friendly Parent Trap
The article discusses how the "friendly parent" rule in family courts can unintentionally harm those involved in high-conflict or abusive situations. While designed to promote cooperation, it often punishes protective behaviors, misinterpreting them as…
When International Custody Law Collides With Family Court Reality
A Maryland father is using the Hague Convention to seek the return of his child from the U.S. to Brazil, highlighting the fragility of parental rights in international custody disputes. The case reveals complexities in applying international law amid…
Colorado Democrats Reignite Gender Identity Debate in Child Custody Law
Colorado Democrats are proposing to incorporate gender identity considerations into child custody laws, which has sparked debate. Supporters argue it protects children, while critics fear it politicizes custody decisions and undermines parental rights.…
The Alienation Accusation Loop
The article discusses the dangers of the "alienation accusation loop" in family courts, where the focus shifts from child safety to interpreting children's resistance as manipulation. This shift can lead to severe consequences for children and protective…
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…
Discretion Without Accountability
Family court decisions often lack transparency, as judges exercise discretion without providing explanations, leading to inconsistent outcomes and a lack of accountability. This opacity hinders parents' ability to challenge rulings or appeal effectively,…