A recent appellate court case highlighted issues with AI-generated citations in custody matters, revealing a trend where self-represented litigants submit…
One Day, Seven Cases: A Court Watcher’s Portrait of Judge Vivian Wang
Judge Vivian Wang, newly appointed in San Mateo County family court, is navigating her first year with a strong commitment…
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…
Silence as Strategy
The article discusses how selective silence in family court is often overlooked as a form of control. It emphasizes that…
Discretion Without Accountability
Family court decisions often lack transparency, as judges exercise discretion without providing explanations, leading to inconsistent outcomes and a lack…
What Family Court Is (and Is Not)
Family court, as a civil court, adjudicates family-related disputes without criminal proceedings. This distinction affects evidence standards, burdens of proof,…
Selective Enforcement
Family court orders often lack consistent enforcement, creating a two-tier system where compliance burdens the harmed parent. Violating parties can…
The Status Quo Trap
The article discusses how temporary orders in family court often become permanent due to inaction and procedural delays. While labeled…
Justice Deferred Is Parenting Denied
Family courts often utilize delays as a strategic tool against parents, prolonging access to children and enabling ongoing harm. These…
You Didn’t Fail to Escalate. You Were Constrained.
Family court often unfairly assumes that parents should escalate their situations, disregarding the constraints they face, such as emotional and…