In child custody cases, courts overwhelmingly side with manipulative, abusive fathers. One lesson that thinking people learned from the pandemic is the importance of listening to the science. California leaders seem proud of their work to tame COVID by listening to the scientists. So why do they allow their courts to ignore important scientific research, particularly when children are … [Read more...]
Double Standard in DV Custody Cases Hurts Children – Three Custody Practices Incompatible with Fair Outcomes
Essay by Barry Goldstein The American Justice System is based on the belief that when each side is given the opportunity to make their best case, the court will reach a fair decision. The obvious problem is when parties have widely disparate financial resources, particularly when only one party can afford an attorney. Courts have sought to respond by providing attorneys for defendants facing … [Read more...]
Family Courts Need Domestic Violence Experts: 20 Common Mistakes in Evaluations Judges Miss
Essay by Barry Goldstein & Veronica York The original sin family courts made in responding to domestic violence cases was turning to mental health professionals as if they were the experts. It is not that psychologists have nothing to contribute, but they do not have the specialized knowledge of domestic violence, child sexual abuse and other critical issues. The original mistake … [Read more...]
The Importance of Treating Women Respectfully
Essay by Barry Goldstein I grew up in a sexist country as a typical sexist guy, not particularly more or less sexist than most boys and men. I benefited from my male privilege even while being oblivious to the unearned benefits it brought. I might have remained ignorant had I not agreed to serve on the board of a battered women’s shelter in Westchester County, New York. One of my best decisions … [Read more...]
Someone is Mentally Ill, an Addict, or an Abuser: The Vastly Different Response in Family Court and in Life
Essay by Barry Goldstein Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Studies are medical research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ACE tells us that exposure to trauma is far more harmful to children than previously understood and has lifelong consequences unless preventive responses are taken soon enough. There are ten ACEs. Having parents who are mentally ill or engage in substance … [Read more...]