Diagnosis as Evidence
In California family courts, a parent's psychiatric diagnosis can suffice as evidence of dangerousness for a domestic violence restraining order, even without corroboration. The law's low evidentiary standard allows subjective claims to influence serious…
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…
Protective Orders: What They Are—and What They Become
Protective orders in family court, meant as temporary safety measures, can drastically and swiftly impact custody, visitation, and parental rights without a finding of guilt. They create lasting narratives and biases, often compounding disadvantages for…
Coercive Control Laws Are Expanding — But Are They Protecting Families or Tearing Them Apart?
New legislation on domestic violence focusing on coercive control has raised concerns about its subjective nature, enabling potential abuse in custody disputes. Critics argue that vague terms empower false accusations, risking due process for accused…