The Lawyer Nobody Fully Hires
Unbundled legal representation is increasingly proposed as a solution to the access-to-justice gap in family court, where most litigants self-represent. However, it often fails to address the complexities of contested cases. While it can be beneficial…
The Retirement Defense: Why “I’ll Make Less Later” Rarely Moves a Family Court Now
A South Carolina appeals court ruled in Updegraff v. Updegraff that a spouse's anticipated future income change cannot modify current alimony obligations, emphasizing courts shouldn't speculate on future financial situations. This decision highlights a…
The Access Gap AI Was Supposed to Close — And What It’s Opening Instead
A recent appellate court case highlighted issues with AI-generated citations in custody matters, revealing a trend where self-represented litigants submit filings containing fabricated legal references. This problem threatens the grace doctrine, which…
The Other Side Writes the Order. Here’s Why That Should Concern You.
In California family court, the attorney representing the winning side drafts the official court order, which becomes the permanent record of proceedings. This practice poses significant risks for self-represented litigants who may be unaware of their…
When Family Court Leaves the Courtroom
The article highlights the risks parents face in private judicial proceedings, particularly in family court settings, where critical decisions may be made without adequate understanding of the processes or implications. It stresses the importance of…
When You Can’t Afford a Lawyer: D.C. Courts Open a New Path for Parents Navigating Alone
In Washington, D.C., a new court initiative aims to support self-represented parents facing legal challenges, particularly in custody and support disputes. While it addresses accessibility, deeper issues of structural fairness remain, highlighting…
AI-Created Case Law, Real Consequences: A Federal Warning Parents Should Not Ignore
A federal court case highlights the dangers of AI-generated legal documents following a brief that cited non-existent case law, leading to sanctions against five attorneys. The ruling stresses the importance of verifying legal citations for credibility,…
Withdrawn but Not Resolved: Inside a Maryland Case That Wouldn’t End Quietly
In a Maryland family law case, attorney Jeff Reichert voluntarily dismissed his petition without prejudice, intending to withdraw due to unresolved ADA accommodation issues. Despite this, a pre-trial conference was still scheduled, prompting the opposing…
Affidavits in Family Court: What They Really Are—and How to Write One Without Destroying Your Case
Affidavits significantly influence family court proceedings, acting as vital statements about a parent's situation. Their impact goes beyond mere truth; presentation matters. Effective affidavits should be factual, neutral, and concise, avoiding…
AI Enters the Family Courtroom—But It Won’t Replace Judgment in 2026
By 2026, AI will serve as a supportive tool in family courts, aiding overwhelmed litigants while ensuring human discretion remains central, particularly in decisions affecting children. Adoption will focus on low-risk functions and self-represented…