There is a pattern in most domestic violence custody cases that would help courts understand child custody disputes better and avoid mistakes that place children in jeopardy. In most cases, during the relationship the father wanted or demanded the mother provide most of the child care. In any other type of litigation, this pattern would be recognized as an admission by the father that the mother … [Read more...]
The Facilitating System of the Family Court: Essay by Grant Wyeth
Earlier this month I made a presentation at a conference, organised by the University of California, Irvine’s Initiative To End Family Violence, in conjunction with California Protective Parents. In my presentation I made some brief points about what can be called the “Facilitating System” in and around family courts that I think could do with some elaboration. These are the ideas and incentives … [Read more...]
Nothing Stronger than Maternal Instinct to Protect Her Child: Essay by Barry Goldstein
Nothing Stronger than Maternal Instinct to Protect Her Child A mother just attacked a mountain lion who snatched her child while custody courts assume protective mothers are just being vindictive. The mother mentioned above was not alienating her child from the mountain lion. The mother’s only concern, like most mothers in contested custody cases is to protect her children. Court professionals … [Read more...]
“My 7-Year-Old Daughter Was Murdered—And This Mother’s Day, I Want You to Know Her Name”
Michelle Hord's 7-year-old daughter, Gabrielle, was murdered by her father in 2017, the day after signing their divorce agreement. In this personal essay, Michelle reflects on her tragedy, her survival, and lifts up mothers across the country who have lost a child to violence. Read more here. … [Read more...]