By Barry Goldstein Most custody cases do not involve domestic violence (DV) or child abuse so if courts need assistance, mental health professionals would be an appropriate choice. Family courts are used to relying on mental health professionals for all cases, but this is based on a long history rather than good research. What works best for children in cases where there are reports or evidence … [Read more...]
‘Piqui’s Law’: Mother’s Push for Bill Named After Son Murdered by His Father Makes Progress
The mom of a Southern California boy who was murdered by his father about five years ago continues to advocate for a law named after her son. Senate Bill 616, or "Piqui's Law," would ensure California could receive federal funding to protect victims of child abuse and domestic violence by "prioritizing child safety in our family court system, aligning with federal provisions within the Violence … [Read more...]
Mother of 3 Girls Slain by Father at Sacramento Church Advocates for SB 616 “Piqui’s Law”
The mother of the three children fatally shot by their father at a church in Arden-Arcade on Feb. 28, 2022 spoke publicly for the first time Monday, June 27th. Ileana Gutiérrez shared her thoughts at a news conference in favor of state Senator Susan Rubio’s (D-Baldwin Park) Senate Bill 616, or "Piqui’s Law," which aims to protect children from domestic violence as parents separate and … [Read more...]
Inquiry Urged Into ‘Parental Alienation’ Court Experts
Lawyers and MPs in England and Wales express concern over ‘unregulated’ psychologists who play key role in disputes over domestic abuse. MPs, lawyers and charity leaders are among those calling for an urgent inquiry into the use of unregulated psychological experts in the family courts, after an investigation by the Observer. In a letter sent to the justice secretary, the victims’ … [Read more...]
New York Legislature: Experts in Child Custody Cases Must be Licensed
Legislation seeking to reform a key aspect of New York's Family Court system passed a crucial hurdle. By a unanimous vote, the state Senate passed the bill raising standards to be a "forensic evaluator" providing paid expertise in Family Court cases. Previously, the same bill had passed the Assembly. The bill is the first among a package seeking to increase child safety in Family Court that … [Read more...]