What Family Court Is (and Is Not)
Family court, as a civil court, adjudicates family-related disputes without criminal proceedings. This distinction affects evidence standards, burdens of proof, and constitutional protections, often surprising parents unprepared for the differences.…
Allegation vs. Counter-Allegation
Family courts often struggle with allegations and counter-allegations, leading to a “tie” where truth becomes obscured. This dynamic fosters dysfunction, as courts prioritize neutrality over safety, misjudging risks based on appearances rather than…
Colorado’s SB26-018 and the Quiet Expansion of Family Court Power
Colorado's SB26-018 seeks to enhance minors' privacy in legal name changes and introduces a custody factor related to parents recognizing a child's identity. While supporters argue it's a safeguard, critics fear it could undermine transparency and…
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…
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…
The Status Quo Trap
The article discusses how temporary orders in family court often become permanent due to inaction and procedural delays. While labeled as provisional, these orders can solidify over time, negatively impacting families, particularly children. The status…
A “Temporary” Order That Never Ended: Lawsuit Highlights Four Years of Father–Child Separation in Maryland
A lawsuit in Baltimore County highlights the issue of temporary family court orders becoming permanent, resulting in prolonged separation between a father, Jeff Reichert, and his son, Grant. Reichert claims a no-contact order led to nearly four years of…
New York Ends Anonymous CPS Hotline Calls — A Shift That Matters for Parents in Family Court
In December 2025, New York's Anti-Harassment in Reporting Act mandates that anyone reporting child abuse or neglect must provide their name and contact information, ending total anonymity for informants. This law aims to prevent misuse of anonymous CPS…
Why Good Parents Lose Early
Parents in family court often find that reasonable behavior backfires, weakening their positions. Traits like cooperation and calmness can be misinterpreted as consent or lack of urgency. This article emphasizes that early decisions shape future…