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Former Rhode Island police officer Scott Naso shares the story of his late wife Sherry, her battle with breast cancer, their journey to parenthood with daughter Laila, and the devastating discovery he made after Sherry died from a brain tumor in 2024 — when symptoms her own parents (both doctors) had dismissed as medication withdrawal turned out to be something far more serious. Scott opens up about what he witnessed the day Sherry died, and the family court battle that followed with his in-laws over visitation rights. Reality Life with Kate Casey Summer Reading List: https://katecasey.substack.com/p/books-i-cant-stop-talking-about-this Vanity Fair Article: https://www.vanityfair.com/culture/story/martha-moxleys-diary What to Watch List: https://katecasey.substack.com Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/katecasey Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/katecaseyca Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itskatecasey?lang=en Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113157919338245 Amazon List: https://www.amazon.com/shop/katecasey Twitter: https://twitter.com/katecaseySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this week's episode, Legal Speak explores the growing use of private judging as an alternative to traditional family court proceedings. As a former Palm Beach County family court judge, James Martz opens up about launching a private judging practice at Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg Atlas in Boca Raton. In addition to explaining how private judging works, Martz identifies the types of family law matters best suited for the process. In Martz's one-on-one with discussion with Texas Lawyer and the Daily Business Review Regional Managing Editor Katie Hall, Martz also outlines the benefits and considerations parties should weigh when seeking a faster, more tailored path to resolving sensitive legal disputes outside the public court system. Hosts: Cedra Mayfield & Patrick Smith Reporter: Katie Hall Guest: James Martz Producer: Charles Garnar
If you've been ordered into parenting coordination, or you're wondering whether a parenting coordinator could help your high-conflict custody case, this conversation is for you.Lisa sits down with Nicole Sodoma, a family law attorney with 26 years of experience, founding partner of Sodoma Law (seven locations across the Carolinas), and a practicing parenting coordinator since 2005. What makes Nicole's perspective uniquely powerful is that she's not just an expert — she's a targeted parent who has personally worked with three different parenting coordinators since her own separation in 2019. She knows this process from every angle.Together, they break down what a parenting coordinator actually does, who gets one (and why), what the most common and costly mistakes parents make are, and the practical communication and documentation strategies that can help you stop making them — starting today.Whether your parenting coordinator seems to be favoring your ex, you're confused about what decisions they can and can't make, or you're just trying to understand how to use this process strategically, Nicole gives you a clear, honest roadmap.
Lawrence revisits one of the most practical and requested topics in the parental alienation community: family court. Drawing from insights shared by family law attorney Rachel King, he explores what many parents wish they understood before hiring an attorney, representing themselves, or standing before a judge whose decisions may profoundly impact their relationship with their children.The discussion focuses on preparation, advocacy, communication, courtroom strategy, and emotional regulation during high-conflict custody disputes. Lawrence reflects on how fear, urgency, and grief can influence decision-making, while highlighting tools that help parents stay grounded and informed throughout the legal process. For those navigating parental alienation and family court, this conversation offers realistic guidance, practical wisdom, and a reminder that living fully is not giving up, but an act of love and integrity.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding the judge's style can influence case outcomesAlways review legal invoices and fee agreements promptlySitting in court proceedings provides valuable insights into judicial behaviorEffective communication and emotional regulation are crucial in courtPreparation and knowledge of evidence rules can prevent case setbacksChapters00:00 - Introduction: The Chaos of Family Court01:02 - Revisiting Key Points from Rachel King's Interview01:56 - The Importance of Court Preparation and Self-Advocacy04:13 - Understanding Court Rules, Expectations, and Judge Behavior06:32 - Managing Legal Fees and Billing Transparency08:25 - Self-Representation: Pros, Cons, and Critical Tips14:15 - Observing Court Proceedings to Gain Insights16:01 - The Judicial Process and Judge Selection18:24 - The Impact of Court Procedures on Your Case20:47 - Continuous Learning and Emotional Self-Care22:01 - Final Thoughts: Support, Resources, and CommunitySupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
What does a Guardian Ad Litem really think when a 10-year-old says they want 50/50 custody?Crystal Wright has heard it hundreds of times — and she can tell instantly when a child has been coached. As a family law attorney AND a working GAL in Atlanta, Georgia, Crystal is one of the rare practitioners who has seen the custody system from every angle: as the attorney fighting for clients, as the neutral investigator protecting children, and as the professional who has had exactly one parent incarcerated for defying her court orders.In this conversation, Crystal joins Lisa Johnson to unpack one of the most contentious questions in family law: when should a child's voice be allowed to decide their custody arrangement — and when should it be completely disregarded?The answer, Crystal says, has nothing to do with how articulate or advanced your child is. It has everything to do with whether the language they're using sounds like an actual child — or like someone's lawyer.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ How GALs instantly detect when a child has been coached — and what specific language is a dead giveaway✅ Why "I want 50/50 custody" coming from a 10-year-old should raise immediate red flags✅ What the 'borrowed scenarios' phenomenon looks like in a real investigation✅ How Crystal visits kids at their schools — without telling the parents — and why she always gets new information✅ The real impact on children when they're put in the middle: clinical depression, self-harm, 17-year-olds calling their GAL crying at 10pm✅ At what ages (11 and 14 in Georgia) a child's preference becomes legally relevant — and why that still doesn't mean they get to choose✅ The non-negotiable case for reunification therapy — and what Crystal does to parents who try to block it✅ How to find a qualified GAL and what to look for in a mental health expert for an older, refusing child✅ What to do when your child won't see you: Crystal's direct advice to rejected parents⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 — Introduction: How Lisa and Crystal met at the Bridging the Gap conference in London01:45 — How a GAL tells the difference: coached child vs. genuine preference04:30 — Crystal's background: family law attorney, boutique firm in Atlanta, and why she loves GAL work06:00 — Advanced children vs. coached children: why intelligence isn't the issue08:15 — "I want 50/50" — why that phrase signals coaching immediately10:00 — Age and preference in Georgia: the affidavit of election at 11, determinative weight at 1413:30 — Why Crystal stopped having children sign affidavits of election15:45 — The 17-year-old: even at near-adulthood, best interest analysis still controls18:00 — Reaction to New Jersey's ruling: what does it mean for children's long-term wellbeing?21:00 — Why Crystal visits children at their schools — without telling parents — and what she learns23:30 — Children and truth-telling: parroting, fawning, and protecting a parent26:00 — Loyalty conflicts: the real emotional impact on children stuck in the middle29:00 — Clinical depression, self-harm, and older kids calling Crystal crying at 10pm32:00 — Older children refusing contact: how to make the case for intervention to the court35:00 — Reunification therapy: Crystal has never been denied an order for it — and here's why38:30 — What happens to parents who block reunification therapy: contempt motions and incarceration41:00 — What kind of expert witness to bring in for an older refusing child43:30 — False allegations and fake documents: how they're handled in investigation46:00 — How to find a good GAL and what qualifications actually matter48:30 — How to prepare your child for a GAL interview (and what NOT to say)51:00 — Advice for rejected parents: don't give up, keep reaching out, send birthday gifts54:00 — Memory, photographs, and why fighting for a child who doesn't want you right now still matters56:30 — How to find Crystal Wright and closing remarks
Today on Steel News, Ann Vandersteel is joined by Arizona court watcher and disability-rights advocate Malinda Sherwyn for a critical investigation into the machinery of America's family courts.Using the Geovanna Holton case out of Pima County, Arizona as an illustrative example, this episode examines allegations of denied due process, coerced psychotropic drugging, ADA accommodation violations, denial of kinship placement, and the devastating consequences of court-ordered treatment when parents are labeled “incompetent,” “unstable,” “noncompliant,” or “a danger to themselves or others.”This is not just one family's story. This is a window into a much larger system involving juvenile courts, CPS, DCF, guardianship courts, court-appointed professionals, NGOs, medical contractors, psychiatric evaluators, foster-care networks, adoption pipelines, and government-funded actors who may profit when families are separated.The question today:Is the family court system broken — or is it operating exactly as designed?
He hadn't heard from one of his four daughters in four years. Then she reached out. And the first thing she said changed everything.Jon McKenzie, founder of @malevictimsoffemalenarcissists (IG) and a returning BTGO guest, joins Lisa to share something that happened just two weeks before this recording: his adult daughter reached out after four years of complete silence, asked to rebuild their relationship, and opened with the words every alienated parent needs to hear: "I'm very sorry for the words I said. My words were very hurtful and disrespectful."If you've been told to "just wait," or you're wondering whether your adult children will ever come back, this conversation is the living proof that they can. And it gives you a philosophy and a framework for surviving the wait.IN THIS CONVERSATION:The two types of parental alienation — legally imposed separation vs. the quiet, psychological erosion that's often more devastatingWhy Jon chose not to divorce until his kids were out of high school — and whether, looking back, that was the right callThe prodigal son framework: how Jon made peace with not chasing his children — and what 'waiting with open arms' actually costs a parent emotionallyWhat his daughter said the moment she reached out — and why Jon didn't pull his punches in their first conversationHow reconciliation with one adult child is opening a possible door with a second — while a third may be permanently enmeshed with their motherWhy Jon refused to badmouth his ex to his children — even after years of alienation — and why he believes that was the single most important thing he didWhat he says to the client who says: 'If one more person tells me the kids will just figure it out, I'm going to lose my mind'GUEST INFO:Jon McKenzieMale Victims of Female Narcissistshttps://malevictimsoffemalenarcissists.comJon's Instagram: @malevictimsoffemalenarcissists
Today at 1 PM ET on Steel News, Ann Vandersteel is joined by Attorney Christopher Burns, a fearless constitutional attorney and head of the United Law Coalition with American Made Action.This episode exposes the machinery of family court, CPS, guardianship, and attorney discipline systems that appear to punish those who challenge entrenched power.Ann and Chris will discuss his legal career, why he has dedicated his work to families under attack, the Rivera case, the unfolding Macklin guardianship battle in Hennepin County, and what happened to his law license after American Made began exposing CPS and judicial corruption.At the center of today's show is six-year-old Emerson “Sonny” Macklin, who lost both biological parents and is now the subject of a sealed guardianship fight. Pacific Justice Institute reports that Emerson's paternal grandfather, Timmy Ray Macklin Sr., has filed to intervene, objected to Rebecca Good's guardianship petition, and filed his own cross-petition seeking placement with family. A hearing on standing is scheduled for June 24, 2026.This is about family. This is about due process. This is about whether America still recognizes blood, kinship, truth, and the constitutional right to be heard.
Facing a negotiation with your high-conflict ex can feel like showing up to a battle already defeated — especially when they have more money, more confidence, or a better attorney. But corporate negotiation expert Lynn Price says the power imbalance you're feeling may be less real than you think. What IS real is whether you make the ask.Lynn spent 25 years as in-house corporate counsel and completed over 11,000 negotiations. In this conversation with Lisa Johnson, she breaks down her Three Rs Framework — Ready, Relatable, and Reasonable — and explains exactly how to apply it when you're co-parenting with someone determined to make your life miserable.In this episode, you'll learn:- The one mindset shift that lets you make the ask even when you feel powerless- How to use the 'have to haves / helpful haves / hopeful haves' system to walk into mediation with a clear, strategic game plan- Why you must stop talking after you make a request — and how to handle the silence- The acting technique that protects your most important priorities (your ex will never see it coming)- How to build enough rapport with a difficult person to actually move the negotiation forward- A general rule from a retired army general that will keep you out of trouble in every difficult conversation- Why practicing out loud — even to your mirror or your dog — can change how you show up in mediation- How to use AI to prepare for your next difficult conversation with your co-parentLisa and Lynn also explore the difference between negotiation and mediation, the psychology of letting the other side 'win' things that don't actually matter, and why knowing your 'walk-away' point before you sit down is one of the most powerful moves you can make.This isn't just theory — Lynn spent nearly 14 years in the construction industry, where her company had no leverage, going up against huge players and still getting what they needed. Her approach works on everyone from Fortune 500 executives to toxic co-parents. And it can work for you.If you're heading into custody mediation, a co-parenting negotiation, or just trying to get your ex to switch a weekend, this conversation will change how you approach it.About Lynn Price:Lynn Price is a negotiation speaker, trainer, and attorney. She spent over 25 years as in-house corporate counsel, completing more than 11,000 negotiations.Website: lynnpriceconsulting.comBook: 'Negotiate It!' on Amazon
Macca and Paul are joined live in the studio by Rachel Payne, MP, Legalize Cannabis Victoria; as they discuss state politics and what’s happening with LCV heading into the election. Rachel Payne is not your standard politician. She came from humble beginnings, left home at sixteen and has direct experience using welfare, government, housing, and legal services. Rachel worked hard to earn a Master of Public Policy and has held leadership and policy roles at Centrelink, the Eros Association and the Family Court of Australia. Rachel is also a cannabis consumer. She prefers to consume cannabis over other medications, drugs and/or alcohol for relaxation and to help manage anxiety and endometriosis symptoms. Rachel joined the Legalise Cannabis Party to champion social justice, improve community wellbeing and to get rid of outdated cannabis laws. She wants Victoria to leverage the many economic, environmental, and tax opportunities cannabis presents. Rachel lives in the south-east with her partner and their two cats. She loves swimming in the sea, live music gigs and cooking up a storm for friends. The post Sat, 30th, May, 2026: Rachel Payne, MP Legalize Cannabis Vic, Member for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region appeared first on Saturday Magazine.
What does a family court judge actually think when you walk through those courtroom doors?If you have ever walked out of a hearing asking "why did the judge do THAT?" — this conversation is for you.Peggy Walsh spent 18 years as a family court judge — after first building her career representing parents, caregivers, and children as a family law attorney. Then she took off her robe. Not because she stopped caring, but because she believed that the people who love a child should be the ones making decisions for that child — not a stranger, however well-intentioned, in a black robe.Today, Peggy works as a co-parenting coach, helping parents stay out of court altogether — or, when court is unavoidable, understand exactly what to expect and how to show up effectively.In this conversation, Lisa and Peggy go deep on what family court actually looks like from the inside — and what most attorneys never tell their clients before they walk into that hearing.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS INTERVIEW:✅ Why judges assume BOTH parents are high conflict — and how that shapes everything they observe✅ What judges really notice about demeanor (and why the person blurting things out in court isn't necessarily the problem outside of court)✅ The one question you should always ask your attorney before your first court appearance — and why most attorneys forget to answer it✅ What "forced resolution" vs. "compromised resolution" actually means — and why Peggy always preferred to help parents reach their own agreements✅ The specific things only you know about your family that no judge ever could — and why that makes negotiated parenting plans almost always better✅ What status conferences are, why Peggy loved using them, and how they can reduce conflict over time✅ Why appearing to "want it all your way" in front of a judge rarely ends well — and what to do instead✅ How to think about co-parenting communication as modeling behavior for your children — not just logistics management✅ Why your child hears your tone of voice even when they are upstairs and cannot hear your words✅ What it looks like to stop making your ex the "star of your show" — and why that shift changes everythingTHIS INTERVIEW IS ESSENTIAL IF YOU:- Are going to court and do not know what to expect- Are frustrated by a custody decision you do not understand- Are trying to build a parenting plan and wondering whether to negotiate or let the judge decide- Keep getting pulled back to court by a high-conflict co-parent- Want to understand what judges actually value — not what TV court dramas portray- Are ready to shift from reactive victim to proactive problem-solver in your caseABOUT PEGGY WALSH:Peggy Walsh is a retired family court judge who served for 18 years, primarily handling divorce and family law matters. Prior to her time on the bench, she represented parents, caregivers, and children as a family law attorney. She is now a co-parenting coach, helping parents navigate high-conflict situations, create workable parenting plans, and stay out of court whenever possible.Connect with Peggy Walsh: https://peggywalsh.com/
We don't talk enough about the real collateral damage of broken systems.And it's not just survivors.It's our kids.In this episode, I'm naming something that so many of you are living through but rarely see acknowledged out loud — the ways children are impacted when systems like family court, child protection, and even therapeutic settings fail to fully understand coercive control and domestic violence.Because this isn't just about what happened in the relationship.It's about what continues to happen after separation… when you're doing everything “right,” and your child is still paying the price.We're talking about the full spectrum of collateral damage — from the quieter, everyday barriers (like not being able to access therapy due to joint decision-making) to the more extreme and devastating outcomes that can occur when abuse is minimized, misunderstood, or ignored.This episode is honest. It's heavy.And it also holds space for hope — because that matters too.In this episode, we cover:How coercive control and post-separation abuse continue to impact kidsWhy joint decision-making can block access to critical careHow children learn to stay silent in medical, legal, and therapeutic settingsThe impact of misinformed professionals (including in therapy and court)How fear, threats, and “provoke and record” dynamics affect childrenThe misuse of terms like “parental alienation” and its consequencesWhat happens when abuse (including sexual abuse) is not believed or substantiatedThe emotional and psychological toll on protective parents and childrenPeer-Reviewed Articleshttps://www.law.georgetown.edu/georgetown-law-journal/wp-content/uploads/sites/26/2022/06/Meier_Denial-of-Family-Violence-in-Court.pdfhttps://scholarship.law.gwu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2809&context=faculty_publicationshttps://scholarship.law.gwu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1857&context=faculty_publicationshttps://barrygoldstein.net/component/tags/tag/the-saunders-studyJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show you may do so here at, Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...
Hair Strand Tests can show if parents have been using drink or drugs. Such tests play can a central part in Family Court hearings every year as judges decide whether children should go into care or not. Some barristers have been raising the alarm over the way the tests are presented and interpreted in the Famly Court. And, for the first time, File on 4 Investigates talks to mothers who nearly lost their babies – thanks to hair strand tests.Presenter: Sanchia Berg Senior Producer: Anna Meisel Producer: Mary O'Reilly Technical Producer: Kelly Young Production Co-ordinator: Tim Fernley Editor: Tara McDermottImage: Lead Senior Scientist Dr Ellie Menzies carrying out a hair strand test
Episode 199 of Say What You Mean with Jéan P the MC features a powerful and personal conversation with Matthew P. Kreitzer. Known for his work in Family Court and deep involvement in the Stark County community, Judge Kreitzer sits down with Jéan for a discussion that goes beyond the courtroom.The episode begins with a lighter, human side of the judge — talking about music, hobbies, fishing, family life, misconceptions people have about judges, and what helps him decompress outside of the courtroom. From funny moments to real-life reflections, listeners get to know the man behind the robe.In the second half, the conversation dives into Judge Kreitzer's journey through law, public service, and eventually the bench. He shares what inspired him to pursue criminal justice and law, lessons learned from working as a public defender and magistrate, the emotional realities of family court, and the importance of leadership, empathy, and community involvement.The episode closes with “P's Positive Point,” where both Jéan and Judge Kreitzer share meaningful quotes and words of encouragement centered around character, purpose, and making a positive impact.A thoughtful, inspiring, and grounded conversation bridging community, culture, and public service.
Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help! Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com Mark Reel Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Reel Fathers Rights APC. Since 2021, Mark and RFR have represented thousands of Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. Mark has been named One to Watch by Best Lawyers and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized by Inc on their Ince 500 list of fastest growing companies as well as Elite Lawyer and Expertise.com About This Episode: This episode provides a critical update on the ongoing legal battle between Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen, noting that as of April 2026, a Utah judge has officially granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) against Dakota. However, because Dakota was already granted a restraining order against Taylor in March, a mutual "no contact wall" has effectively been established between the parties due to cross-allegations of domestic violence. In a massive blow to Taylor, the judge ruled that their two-year-old son, Ever, will remain in the primary custody of Dakota for the time being, restricting Taylor to just eight hours of supervised visitation per week. The court cited volatile behavior as the reason for this restriction, pointing to multiple leaked videos showing physical altercations while the children were present. The episode concludes by looking ahead to the critical court showdown scheduled for April 30, 2026.
Slam The Gavel welcomes back Amy Palacios to the podcast. Amy has been on the podcast Season 5, Episodes 308, and multiple episodes explaining the corruption of her case and giving updates. On this podcast, Amy states that they are looking to put her into JAIL June 15th, 2026 for Child Support Arrears as well as Attorney's Fees. However, Amy explains their EXTORTION monies have already been paid and she owes NOTHING. This fits into the perfect playbook. When the unfit, alienating parent, with the help of attorneys, puts the loving - fit parent into jail, that gives them free rein to not only obtain/EXTORT money, but BRAINWASH the children to hate the other parent. Attorney Jay White still remains head of DSS Child Welfare AND Child Support. Amy is asking why he is still in his capacity when he had been fired the year prior. His brother is Mayor Merritt White. The conflict of interest in Cabarrus County, NC continues.To Reach Amy Palacios: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help! Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com Mark Reel Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Reel Fathers Rights APC. Since 2021, Mark and RFR have represented thousands of Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. Mark has been named One to Watch by Best Lawyers and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized by Inc on their Ince 500 list of fastest growing companies as well as Elite Lawyer and Expertise.com About This Episode: This episode of the podcast covers Mississippi's passage of House Bill 1662, a groundbreaking family law reform that establishes a rebuttable presumption that joint custody with equal parenting time is in the best interest of children. The host, family rights attorney Mark Ruel Jr., celebrates Mississippi for joining an elite group of states—including Kentucky, Arkansas, West Virginia, Florida, and Missouri—that have codified true 50-50 parenting laws. The discussion highlights how this law effectively eliminates the outdated "weekend visitor" dynamic for fathers, shifts the burden of proof to the party trying to deny custody, adjusts child support expectations based on actual parenting time, and aligns with data showing the psychological benefits of dual-parent involvement for children.
A judge running for Family Court is telling her story, as a shooting occurs in a local Smiths store because of a family dispute. Not solved. No parents for two children and the pain goes on.
What happens when your relationship has ended, but neither of you can move out? This is something I am seeing more and more across Australia. Separation no longer always looks like one person packing a bag and moving into a new home. With the cost of living, rental shortages, mortgage pressure, children, leases, school zones and financial stress, many people are finding themselves separated but still living under the same roof. And while that might be the only practical option, it can also be emotionally exhausting. In this episode, I talk about the growing reality of separation under one roof and how you can move through it with more clarity, structure and support. This is not about pretending everything is fine. It is not about staying in the same relationship. It is about recognising that, for many people, physical separation is not immediately possible but emotional, practical, financial and legal separation can still begin. I explore how to create a same-roof separation plan, how to protect children from confusion and conflict, how to manage the emotional load, and why safety must always come first. This episode is for you if you are living in that difficult middle place: the relationship has ended, but the home, the mortgage, the lease, the children or the finances mean you are still sharing the same address. Resources: If you are in immediate danger, call 000. For domestic, family or sexual violence support in Australia, contact 1800RESPECT (1800737732). It is a national counselling, information and support service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For men using, or at risk of using, violent or controlling behaviour, the Men's Referral Service is available nationally on 1300 766 491. Separation under one roof is recognised in Australia, including by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia when couples have lived separately in the same home during the 12-month separation period required for divorce. The Court notes that extra information may be needed if you rely on that period when applying for divorce. Services Australia also recognises this situation and has a "Separated under one roof" form for people who are separated but still living with their ex-partner, so their relationship status can be assessed correctly for payments. Host: Nikki Parkinson, TEDx Speaker, Divorce Doula, Coach and Founder of The Divorce and Separation Hub. The Divorce and Separation Hub Website The Divorce and Separation Hub Instagram The Divorce and Separation Hub Facebook The Divorce and Separation Hub Linkedin Join our Divorce and Separation community HERE. Watch Nikki's TEDx Talk HERE. Loved This Episode? Support the podcast by subscribing, leaving a five-star review, and sharing it with someone who could use a little extra support right now. Do you have a question you want answered? Submit your question here. This episode is produced by Dan King of Dan King Productions. This episode is sposnored by Simple Separation, the smarter way to separate. Simple Separation is an online, fixed-fee service designed to help Australian couples finalise their divorce and separation respectfully, collaboratively, and without the stress of going to court. From property settlements and parenting plans to child support and divorce applications, everything you need is under one roof, saving you time, money, and unnecessary conflict. Book your free consultation today to find out if Simple Separation is right for your situation at simple-separation.com.au. Disclaimer I hope you enjoyed the podcast today. The information we discussed today was just that information only. It is not specific advice. If you take action following something you heard today, it is important to make sure you get professional advice about your unique situation before you proceed, whether that advice be legal, financial, accounting, medical or other advice. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or if there's another topic you'd like explored.
If you've ever said “I know what she's doing” and then realized you can't prove it, this briefing is for you. We're drawing a hard line between truth and evidence and showing how to stop walking into family court with feelings, fragments, and resentment that read like “he said, she said.” The goal is simple: protect your fatherhood by turning repeated bad behavior into a clear pattern a judge, guardian ad litem, or custody evaluator can actually use.We walk through a narrative-building protocol designed for high conflict divorce and child custody fights. You'll hear how to adopt a forensic mindset, apply the “third-party test,” and write entries that sound like a neutral report, not a diary. We break down the Four Ws (who, what, where, when) and the six categories that make patterns instantly visible: exclusion, gatekeeping, interference, control, tactical strikes, and the one most dads forget to track, flexibility, which documents your stability and your willingness to support the kids' relationship with the other parent.Then we get tactical about evidence management: why documentation without evidence is just a story, how to link each entry to a screenshot, parenting app message, email, or video file, and how to store it all in a “digital sanctuary” with a naming convention your attorney can navigate fast. We also cover the three-copy rule for backups, plus the gray rock method so you stop giving high-conflict bait your emotional energy and let the data do the talking. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help! Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com Mark Reel Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Reel Fathers Rights APC. Since 2021, Mark and RFR have represented thousands of Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. Mark has been named One to Watch by Best Lawyers and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized by Inc on their Ince 500 list of fastest growing companies as well as Elite Lawyer and Expertise.com About This Episode: This episode of the podcast covers a major legal shift in the ongoing divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta stars Drew Sidora and Ralph Pittman. After nearly three years of litigation, a judge has issued a temporary order requiring Drew to vacate the marital home by May 31, 2026, ending the "co-parenting limbo" where the couple lived on separate floors of the same house. Most significantly, the judge awarded Ralph primary custody during the school year after his legal team provided evidence that the children had excessive school absences while under Drew's primary care. While Drew's attorneys maintain that this is a temporary order and the matter is still being actively litigated, she currently faces a move-out deadline and a reduction to an alternating weekend visitation schedule starting in August.
If you have a court date coming up, a difficult phone call with your ex on the calendar, or you're just sick and tired of going blank exactly when you need to be sharp, this conversation is for you.Lisa sits down with Annie Brook, a body-centered somatic psychologist who has trained therapists for decades and spent time in courtrooms testifying for children. Annie brings something genuinely different to this conversation: not just the why behind the freeze, the anger, and the exhaustion you've been feeling, but practical, body-based tools you can use covertly, right now, even with a judge watching.In this episode, Annie explains:- Why hopelessness after a toxic relationship is neurological, not a character flaw- How your birth experience and earliest attachment moments may have shaped the "blind spots" your ex exploited- The science behind why you freeze when you're attacked in conversation or in court, and how to break it- Four covert grounding techniques you can use during a custody hearing without anyone knowing- The "hula hoop" exercise that rebuilds your sense of personal space and power- What "middle tone" is and why it's the secret to staying credible and relational under pressure- How self-attack thinking is not just emotionally exhausting — it may be affecting your physical healthAnnie Brook's website: https://www.anniebrook.com#NarcissisticAbuse #NervousSystemHealing #SomaticTherapy #FamilyCourt #HighConflictDivorce #ParentalAlienation #TraumaHealing #CoParenting #CustodyBattle #AnnieBrook #BeenThereGotOut
What actually happens in a domestic violence assessment? And how do you know if you even need one?In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Lisa Fontes, an expert in coercive control and domestic violence assessments, to talk about something many survivors are navigating but don't fully understand — how these evaluations and expert witnesses show up in family court.If you've ever been told to “get an expert” or wondered if that would help your case, this conversation will give you a clearer picture of what that actually means and when it might (and might not) be helpful.We also talk about the reality that many survivors face in family court — where experiences like coercive control, sexual coercion, and post-separation abuse are often misunderstood, minimized, or not given the weight they deserve.Inside this episode, we talk about:• What a domestic violence or coercive control assessment actually looks like • The difference between an expert witness and a subject matter expert • When an expert can be helpful in family court — and when they may not be necessary • Why self-report assessments can be unreliable in abuse cases • How coercive control and sexual abuse often go unrecognized in legal settings • What “manufactured” claims and “provoke and record” tactics can look like • The misuse of the term “parental alienation” and how it shows up in court • Why post-separation abuse is often missed — and why that matters • How to evaluate whether an expert witness is actually qualified • The growing trend of survivors pursuing civil cases for damagesThis episode is especially relevant if you are navigating family court, dealing with custody issues, or trying to figure out how to advocate for yourself in systems that may not fully understand abuse.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show you may do so here at, Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...
Finding the right therapist for your child during a high-conflict divorce is one of the most important and misunderstood decisions you'll make.Most parents want immediate results. They want their child to sit down in session one and start processing everything that's been happening at home. But experienced art therapist Ahimsa Luciano has seen this expectation backfire again and again, and she has a more effective approach to share.In this conversation, Ahimsa breaks down what effective therapy for children in high-conflict situations actually looks like, why it takes longer than parents expect, and why that's not a bad thing. She explains how to match your child's personality to a therapeutic style, what to say when the other parent has told your child therapy means something is wrong with them, and exactly why the therapist can't be your source of custody intel, even when you desperately want updates.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:- Why AI will never replace a human therapist, and what the 7-38-55 communication rule reveals about what's really missing- What makes an experienced intake truly different and why this first step is the most important one- How to give a resistant child space to open up, even when their world feels like it's in chaos- Why it can take months (or longer) before a child talks, and why that's not failure- How to handle a child who's been told therapy means they're damaged - a trauma-informed response that actually works- The truth about "parentification" in high-conflict families and its long-term impact on relationships and boundaries- Why children tell each parent something different and why that doesn't mean anyone is lying- What 'your child is fine with both parents' in an evaluation actually means, and why it's not the betrayal it feels like- Why custody exchanges are a major anxiety trigger for children and the specific harm of using kids as tools at handoffs- Questions to ask when choosing a therapist for your child including how to match personality type to therapeutic style- Why your child's therapy space must be private and what the therapist will and won't share with youABOUT AHIMSA LUCIANO:Ahimsa Luciano is an art therapist licensed in New York State and the co-founder and co-owner of Pleasantville Wellness Group, a multidisciplinary therapy practice in Pleasantville, NY serving children through adults, couples, and families. She began her career at a domestic violence and sexual assault agency as the children's therapist — an experience that gave her deep roots in working with kids navigating high-conflict separations, divorce, and trauma. Pleasantville Wellness Group offers a broad range of therapeutic modalities including art therapy, play therapy, and individual and group services, and is currently in-network with NYSHIP, United Healthcare, and Oxford for New York State clients. Some therapists in the practice are also licensed in additional states. https://www.pleasantvillewellnessgroup.com/home#highconflictdivorce #childtherapy #parentalalienation #coparenting #arttherapy #custodybattle #parentification #divorceandkids #traumainformedparenting #beentheregotout #kidsanddivorce #therapyforchildren
Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help! Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com About This Episode: This episode explores the sudden legal fallout between Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and his former fiancée, Sarah Jane Ramos, following the cancellation of their luxury wedding in Lake Como, Italy, on April 10, 2026. The split followed a high-tension trip to the Bahamas where allegations of infidelity arose, leading to the couple calling off the wedding via an email to 250 guests. The podcast details the legal steps taken by Prescott, who filed a petition in Texas to establish joint managing conservatorship for their two young daughters, MJ and Aurora, seeking specific parental rights such as joint decision-making and a geographic restriction to keep the family in Texas. Despite the initial public drama, the episode highlights a positive development: both parties have agreed to settle custody and co-parenting details privately through mediation rather than a public trial, a move praised by their legal teams and peers as being in the best interest of their children.
Send us Fan MailArizona families navigating divorce or custody disputes often face an issue no one talks about: what happens when a spouse, parent, or loved one is in a mental health crisis and refusing treatment. Under Arizona Title 36, there is a legal process that allows family members to petition for a court-ordered mental health evaluation, and in some cases, court-ordered treatment. Knowing how this process works, when it applies, and how it intersects with family law can be critical for parents trying to protect their children.Modern Law attorney Emily Palomino brings a perspective most family law attorneys do not have. Before joining Modern Law, Emily served as a mental health defense attorney in Arizona, representing patients who had been detained under Title 36 petitions at facilities including Palo Verde and Banner South. She worked inside the court-ordered evaluation and treatment system every day, and she knows exactly how it works from both sides.Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Meet Emily Palomino00:49 Emily's Path from Disney World to Law School03:43 What Is a Mental Health Defense Attorney in Arizona05:27 How to File a Title 36 Petition for a Loved One06:34 The Ex Parte Nature of the Evaluation Process08:19 Medical Privacy and What the Petitioner Gets Access To09:50 When Title 36 Gets Weaponized in Family Court11:07 The Right to Legal Representation in Mental Health Cases18:39 When Court-Ordered Treatment Actually Works19:51 Title 36 and Minors: What Age Does This Apply20:46 Recommended Arizona Treatment Centers21:36 Substance Abuse and the Mental Health System22:35 What Happens If You Violate Court-Ordered Treatment23:24 Emily Joins Modern Law: What She Is Looking Forward ToIf you or someone you love is facing a mental health crisis that is affecting a family law case in Arizona, the attorneys at Modern Law can help you understand your options. Call 480-649-2905 or visit mymodernlaw.com to schedule a consultation with our team.
Slam the Gavel welcomes new guest, Doug Devitre who is Founder and President at CoTrackPro. Doug has built AI-Powered Apps for Family Justice, Mental Health and Legal Reform. CoTrackPro is more than a breath of fresh air for families navigating the legal system. Doug most recently created CoTrackPro which is a family-focused SaaS Platform comprising 7+ integrated applications. These tools support not only parents but attorneys, therapists and court officials with AI-Powered documentation, compliance tracking and communication management during custody or legal situations. This wonderful app carries within it: Decisions, Mental, Cyber, Bridges, Legal, and Talk. CoTrackPro helps families and professionals collaborate, document and resolve issues in real time.To Reach Doug Devitre: LinkedIn or CoTrackPro.com or https://mailchi.mp/2ed059283bd7/signup and https://cotrackpro.comSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboouthttps://mailchi.mp/2ed059283bd7/signup*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
If your child just told you something terrible — or if you're afraid they're trying to — this conversation is for you.Lisa sits down with Julia Hochstadt, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma, childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Julia works with adolescents (15+) and adults, including many parents navigating high-conflict custody situations where their children may be in danger. She also testifies as an expert witness in DV and intimate partner violence cases.This interview was recorded during Sexual Assault Awareness Month — but Julia's guidance is something every protective parent needs to hear, no matter what month it is.In this conversation, you'll hear:→ The #1 thing Julia urges parents to do immediately when a child discloses abuse — and the exact words to say→ Why disclosures can sound unbelievable — and why that doesn't mean they're not true→ How years of gaslighting from an abusive partner erode your ability to trust your own instincts (and what to do about it)→ The behavioral signs that should prompt a protective parent to lean in — not wait and watch→ A practical, age-appropriate framework for building a child's safety plan — including how to plan for different times of day, different scenarios, and changing circumstances→ Why Julia compares child safety planning to how the fire department talks about home fire safety — and why you should revisit it every time life transitions happen→ What research says about the #1 protective factor for a child whose abuse was not properly addressed by the legal system→ How to comfort a terrified child when you have to send them on a court-ordered exchange you know is unsafeLisa also shares a real situation she encountered that same morning: a mother whose child disclosed the worst kind of abuse, survived two investigations that were not acted upon, and is now being forced into a form of reunification therapy that's making things dramatically worse. Julia's guidance for this mother, and for the many parents in this community who are living this nightmare, is both clinically grounded and deeply human.ABOUT JULIA HOCHSTADT, LCSWJulia is a licensed clinical social worker licensed to practice in New York and New Jersey. She specializes in primary and secondary survivors of childhood sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence. She does training, education, and outreach nationally, and testifies as an expert witness in DV and IPV cases. She is also available for consultation to individuals and clinicians nationwide.Website: https://therapywithjulia.com#ChildAbuse #ChildSafety #ParentalAlienation #HighConflictDivorce #ProtectiveParent #DomesticViolence #SafetyPlanning #ChildDisclosure #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth #CustodyBattle #CoParenting #TraumaTherapist #BeenThereGotOut
That sick jolt in your chest when her name lights up your phone isn't random. We know exactly what it is: a trigger that pushes good dads into “explaining,” and then into messages that can be twisted into court exhibits. We slow that moment down and replace it with a communication strategy that protects your peace and your parenting time.We walk through the Grey Rock Method for high-conflict divorce communication: how to become emotionally unrewarding, keep replies short and neutral, and stop feeding the fire with long defenses. We also unpack the psychology behind emotional extraction and “narcissistic supply” so you understand why the conflict keeps looping, even when you bring facts, logic, and good intentions. If you've ever thought, “If I just explain it clearly, she'll finally get it,” this conversation shows why that approach backfires.Then we connect it to the reality of family court. When decisions run on preponderance of evidence, the calmest parent often wins the narrative. We share practical scripts for common traps, explain a “yellow rock” variation for false accusations, and warn you about the extinction burst when you change the pattern, and the other side escalates. We also zoom out to parallel parenting as the long-term infrastructure: fewer points of contact, tighter orders, and fewer loopholes for conflict to exploit. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
If you've ever sat in a courtroom waiting for a judge to address what your ex is doing... and walked out with nothing... AGAIN, you already know this truth in your bones: justice delayed is justice denied.Criminal defense attorney, legal analyst, and law professor James Porfido has spent more than 35 years watching the American legal system from every angle: as a prosecutor in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, as a certified criminal trial attorney, and as a defense attorney for people caught in a system that often seemed designed to work against them. His book, Unequal Justice, is a frank accounting of what he witnessed.In this conversation with Lisa, James brings that rare "both sides of the courtroom" perspective to the world of high-conflict divorce and custody — and what he sees mirrors exactly what our community lives every day.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why family court cases drag on for months and years, and why judges often feel they have no choice- How a toxic ex uses court delays strategically to wear you down, separate you from your children, and drain your finances- What "parental alienation" looks like through the eyes of a criminal attorney who has represented falsely accused parents- How coached child testimony works and what it means for your case- The single most important thing to look for when hiring an attorney (hint: it's not their fees)- Why knowing the "lay of the land" in your local court system is as important as knowing the law- How court staff relationships can quietly determine whether your case moves forward... or stalls- James's framework for what questions to ask when interviewing a potential attorneyAbout James Porfido James Porfido is a New Jersey-based attorney with over 35 years of experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney. He is a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney, certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. He is currently of counsel at a 65-attorney New Jersey firm, an adjunct law professor teaching advocacy and persuasion at Seattle Law School, and a legal analyst who has provided commentary on high-profile cases including OJ Simpson, the Menendez brothers, and Scott Peterson. His book, Unequal Justice, is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.#HighConflictDivorce #FamilyCourt #ParentalAlienation #JusticeDelayed #CustodyBattle #FalseAllegations #DomesticViolence #CoerciveControl #BeenThereGotOut #UnequalJustice
Slam The Gavel welcomes Kathy Watrel, Etha Jones, Dennis Merritt and Tess Harmon to the podcast. Today we discussed how another parent has been pulled from Family Court into the criminal justice system and incarcerated. Her name is Agness McCurry. Many of her know her from her TikTok channel: I am not a lawyer 96 with over 10,000 followers. Agness was last on Slam The Gavel Season 5, Episode 211. We are here to talk about the facts as we understand them and provide a brief history of Agness's case and discuss what people can do to help, including getting in touch with the Governor of Tennessee, Senate and legislators. To Reach all contributors: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help! Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com Mark Reel Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Reel Fathers Rights APC. Since 2021, Mark and RFR have represented thousands of Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. Mark has been named One to Watch by Best Lawyers and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized by Inc on their Ince 500 list of fastest growing companies as well as Elite Lawyer and Expertise.com About This Episode: This episode covers the stunning legal fallout between former Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin and his 19 teenager son, Jonah Bevin. Matt Bevin, who famously championed "family values" and signed legislation creating a presumption for 50/50 joint custody, now faces a 60-day jail sentence after being found in contempt of court. The conflict centers on Jonah's allegations that his parents abandoned him at a residential facility in Jamaica at age 17—a facility later shut down for abuse—and left him without resources or education. As Jonah sues for child support and educational expenses, the case has sparked further controversy with the introduction of House Bill 707, dubbed the "Bevin Bill," which aims to prevent children from intervening in their parents' divorce cases.
Hawk shares global statistics on intimate partner violence and femicide, noting that roughly 140 women per day are murdered by romantic partners or family members worldwide, and that women face intimate partner homicide at a rate ten times higher than men in the United States. Drawing on three real cases from his early legal career in Mansfield, Ohio, Hawk describes clients who had active restraining orders and still lost their lives. One woman died when her husband filled their home with gas and she unknowingly lit a candle. Another was beaten to death in a parking lot with a tire iron. A third was shot in front of her five children by a husband who borrowed a weapon from a sheriff's deputy who was fully aware of the restraining order and domestic violence charges. The cases raise serious questions about how courts and law enforcement handle firearms in domestic violence situations, how dangerous separation can be for women, and what patterns of male violence against women reveal about systemic failure. SUPPORT & CONNECT WITH HAWK- Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mdg650hawk - Hawk's Merch Store: https://hawkmerchstore.com - Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mdg650hawk7thacct - Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hawkeyewhackamole - Connect on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mdg650hawk.bsky.social - Connect on Substack: https://mdg650hawk.substack.com - Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hawkpodcasts - Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdg650hawk - Connect on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mdg650hawk ALL HAWK PODCASTS INFO- Additional Content Available Here: https://www.hawkpodcasts.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@hawkpodcasts- Listen to Hawk Podcasts On Your Favorite Platform:Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RWeJfyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/422GDuLYouTube: https://youtube.com/@hawkpodcastsiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/47vVBdPPandora: https://bit.ly/48COaTB
Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help! Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com Mark Reel Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Reel Fathers Rights APC. Since 2021, Mark and RFR have represented thousands of Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. Mark has been named One to Watch by Best Lawyers and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized by Inc on their Ince 500 list of fastest growing companies as well as Elite Lawyer and Expertise.com About This Episode: This podcast episode dives into Title IV-D, a 1975 federal program originally designed as a "safety net" for low-income families that has transformed into what the host calls a "money-maker" for state governments. Originally intended to recover welfare costs from non-custodial parents, the program now serves as a state-subsidized debt collection service for wealthy families regardless of income. The host argues that because the federal government provides performance bonuses based on cost-effectiveness, state case workers are incentivized to prioritize high-dollar cases over impoverished families who actually need the help. To fix the system, the episode proposes implementing means testing and weighted metrics that reward lifting children out of poverty rather than just collecting large checks for the affluent.
This week, Ivy Slater, host of Her Success Story, chats with her guest, Asia Scarlett-Jones. The two talk about Asia's inspiring journey, what drove her to commit to family law, her fearless leap to start her own practice at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lessons she's learned about leadership, building authentic relationships, and asking for help along the way. In this episode, we discuss: How Asia built her book of business from one client and a whole lot of courage, personally reaching out to everyone she knew, leveraging her court attorney and public-interest experience, owning her story on social media, and slowly refining who her true "ideal clients" are. What truly matters to her in networking: smaller, heart-to-heart relationship building, enjoying the room, becoming a trusted resource, and inviting others to "come meet my friends" rather than treating events like transactional referral hunts. When she realized she couldn't do it all, and chose to hire an executive assistant first to calm the chaos, followed by clerks, associates, and interns, she proudly helps them grow into their next chapters. Why Asia sees accepting help as a leadership strength, not a weakness. How she moved from "generic networking" to purpose-driven involvement, aligning with organizations like Women Owned Law, FamilyKind, and FDMC that match her values around women business owners, mediation, and healthier family transitions. Asia Scarlett-Jones, Esq. Founder & Managing Attorney, ASJ Law Office Asia Scarlett-Jones, Esq. is a force in family law, known for her forward-thinking leadership and dedication to helping professionals navigate divorce with strategy, efficiency, and dignity. As the Founder and Managing Attorney of ASJ Law Office, a boutique New York-based firm, she has redefined the family law experience, offering concierge-level legal services with a deep commitment to protecting what matters most: family, legacy, and peace of mind. Before launching ASJ Law Office, Mrs. Scarlett-Jones built a strong foundation in public service. She served as a Public Defender at the Nassau County Legal Aid Society, where she advocated for parents in custody and support matters, and later as a Principal Court Attorney in Nassau County Family Court, where she worked directly with Family Court judges to resolve complex legal issues and draft judicial decisions. Under her leadership, ASJ Law Office has become a trusted name for professionals seeking resolution- not conflict- in family matters. Her firm focuses on divorce, custody, child support, prenuptial agreements, and mediation, with a mission to guide clients through transitions with clarity and confidence. Mrs. Scarlett-Jones has been repeatedly recognized for her legal acumen and leadership. Her honors include Top 40 Under 40, The National Black Lawyers, New York Metro Rising Star, Super Lawyers Rising Star, Family Kind (2024), and National Academy of Family Law Attorneys. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Family Kind, Family and Divorce Mediation Council of Greater New York (FDMC), and Women Owned Law (WOL). She also holds leadership roles, including Co-Chair of the Matrimonial and Family Law Committee of the Women's Bar Association of the State of New York and Co-Chair of the DEI Subcommittee of the Small Law Firm Committee, New York City Bar Association. Mrs. Scarlett-Jones is an active member of the New York City Bar Association, Family and Divorce Mediation Council, Women-Owned Law, Metropolitan Black Bar Association, New York Women's Bar Association, Family Kind, New York State Bar Association, Women's Bar Association of the State of New York, and American Bar Association. She earned her Juris Doctor from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law and her Bachelor's from the University at Albany. Website: https://asjlawoffice.com/ Social Media Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asiascarlettjonesesq/
If you think family court works like a neutral machine that processes facts and outputs justice, I want you to pause and “lock in.” What wins in custody battles is rarely the tidy binder of receipts you brought to prove you're a good dad. What wins is the narrative, the momentum, and the record the court can scan quickly while clearing a packed docket. That's the dangerous myth we dismantle, because it lures well-meaning fathers into complacency and turns them into weekend visitors.We walk through the cold math behind fathers' rights and child custody outcomes, including why custodial fathers remain a small minority and why parenting time often lands near a level that minimizes a dad's real influence. Then we get blunt about the incentives driving the system: efficiency, risk management, and the lingering cultural assumptions that treat mothers as the default parent. I also share research and real-world observations that highlight the bias gap between what attorneys see and what judges believe about their own neutrality.From there, we pivot to solutions you can execute. We talk about taking operational control, bridging the “decision gap” between hearings, and building a documented record so dense it becomes procedurally hard to ignore. That means moving communication into a court-approved parenting app, creating a forensic paper trail, and mastering emotional regulation so provocation doesn't become “evidence” against you. If you're trying to keep things amicable, we cover why “amicable until it's not” is a real risk and how to prepare before the tone shifts. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
Truth Be Told with Booker Scott – Family courts and medical authorities expand power with alarming consequences. Parents risk losing custody for questioning treatment decisions, while agencies operate under low standards of proof. Urgent reform calls for due process, transparency, and protection of parental rights, restoring trust and balance between child safety, medical judgment, and fundamental family freedoms...
In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia talks with Sol Kennedy, founder of the Best Interest co-parenting app, about high-conflict co-parenting, family court, co-parent communication, and how AI can help parents reduce conflict.Sol shares how his own divorce and co-parenting experience led him to create an app that acts like a buffer between toxic messages and reactive responses. They talk about why the family court system can feel emotionally brutal, how co-parenting apps are usually built for documentation instead of actual peace, and why so many parents and stepparents feel completely drained by ongoing conflict with an ex.If you are navigating divorce, co-parenting stress, stepparent overwhelm, custody issues, or constant conflict with an ex, this episode will help you think differently about communication, boundaries, and protecting your peace.In this episode, Alicia and Sol discuss:High-conflict co-parenting and emotional triggersHow AI can support calmer co-parent communicationThe role of co-parenting apps in reducing conflictHow stepparents absorb stress from bio-parent conflictWhy “being the bigger person” feels exhaustingHow slowing down communication can protect your peaceConnect with Sol Kennedy:founder@bestinterest.appUse code STEPMOMSIDE - $10 off a Protect subscriptionBest Interest App on iOS Best Interest App on AndroidFollow Best Interest on InstagramSupport the showRegister here for StepmomCon Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.
He walked into family court thinking justice meant truth—and walked out realizing it meant strategy. Today's guest, Alex R. Dane, lived through a brutal custody battle that could have broken him. Instead, he turned that pain into a playbook—helping parents protect their kids, their peace, and their sanity when the system feels stacked against them.Today we're joined by Alex R. Dane, father, strategist, and author of How to Win Your Divorce: A Parent's Battle-Tested Guide to Family Court. After surviving a high-conflict divorce and custody war, Alex made it his mission to help other parents fight smarter—not angrier—while keeping their kids at the center. His work blends tactical planning, emotional intelligence, and raw honesty about what really happens inside family court.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Custody Battle02:09 Life Before the Divorce03:52 The Emotional Toll of Separation07:24 Developing a Strategic Mindset11:11 Understanding the Court System14:59 Navigating Emotions During the Process18:34 Protecting Yourself and Your Child21:55 Managing Perceptions in Court28:56 Navigating the Unfairness of the Process30:09 Strategic Parenting Through Legal Battles32:29 Finding Grounding Amidst Chaos35:20 The Refinement of Parenthood Through Struggle38:41 Defining Winning in Co-Parenting41:17 Transforming Experience into Guidance42:49 The Evolution of Co-Parenting Dynamics44:47 Embracing the Good Old Days46:21 Lighthearted Reflections in the Dad ZoneVisit the website for interactive activity guides and everything YDP- www.youngdadpod.com Click the link for YDP deals (Triad Math, Forefathers, and more) - https://linktr.ee/youngdadpod Interested in being a guest on the Young Dad Podcast? Reach out to Jey Young through PodMatch at this link: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/youngdadLastly,consider making a monetary donation to support the Pod, https://buymeacoffee.com/youngdadpod.
Two of Susan Guthrie's greatest passions, divorce and family law, and the world of AI, come together in this episode, and the result is something truly powerful. Post-separation abuse is something far too many people experience, but the legal system still struggles to understand. Many people assume that once someone leaves an abusive relationship, the danger is over. But in reality, the abuse often changes form. It can show up as litigation abuse, weaponized communication, or ongoing coercive control that leaves survivors feeling like they are still walking on eggshells, even in family court. Susan is joined by Anne Wintemute, co-founder and CEO of AimeeSays, an AI tool built specifically to support survivors of relationship abuse. AimeeSays helps survivors document their experiences, identify patterns of coercive control, and organize their story in a way that professionals and courts can actually understand. This is the bridge that has been missing. What You Will Learn Why the legal system tends to focus on isolated incidents rather than patterns of behavior, and why that gap can be so damaging for survivors How documenting patterns of coercive control, rather than individual incidents, can change the way a story is received in court Why survivors often struggle to tell their story clearly, and how trauma directly impacts testimony How AI technology is helping survivors organize their experiences and communicate what they have lived through in ways that courts and professionals can actually understand Why legal professionals need to know about tools like AimeeSays and how it can help them help their clients Golden Nuggets Leaving an abusive relationship does not always end the abuse. For many survivors, the abuse simply changes form, often showing up as litigation abuse, coercive control, and weaponized communication during and after divorce. One of the greatest challenges survivors face in family court is that the system tends to look for isolated incidents, while abuse often exists as a pattern of behavior over time. Being able to document those patterns clearly can make an enormous difference in how a story is understood. Technology may finally be helping to bridge that gap. Tools like AimeeSays are helping survivors organize their experiences, recognize patterns, and communicate what they have been living through in ways that courts and professionals can better understand. Divorce & Beyond Listeners Special Offer From Aimee Says: Visit the website: http://www.aimeesays.com - and use code "Guthrie30" for two free months of Aimee at aimeesays.com. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Hello Divorce Hello Divorce is a modern platform designed to support people before, during, and beyond divorce. The platform provides legal information, tools, and access to professionals who help individuals navigate divorce more thoughtfully and constructively. Explore resources created specifically for Divorce & Beyond listeners: HelloDivorce.com/Susan Free Resource: The Post-Separation Abuse Self-Assessment and Pattern Recognition Checklist If you or someone you know is navigating life after leaving an abusive relationship, Susan has created a resource to help you start making sense of what you have been experiencing. The Post-Separation Abuse Self-Assessment and Pattern Recognition Checklist is designed for survivors who are trying to identify patterns of coercive control and post-separation abuse, something that is honestly hard to see clearly when you are in the middle of it. Download the free Divorce Clarity Starter Guide here or on the website at: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/latest-episode Special Offer from Yumiyu YUMIYU Jewelry is Susan's favorite source for meaningful, handcrafted jewelry designed to empower women and celebrate individuality. Each piece is made with care, using high-quality materials like real gold and vermeil, and is water-resistant, non-tarnish, and hypoallergenic. During difficult times, like divorce, wearing a symbol of hope or protection—such as a hamsa or an evil eye—can be a comforting reminder to keep the faith and stay strong. As a special gift to my listeners, YUMIYU Jewelry is offering 20% off your purchase! Use the code "BEYOND" at checkout to claim your discount. Explore their stunning collection at yumiyujewelry.com and find your perfect piece today! Link: https://divorcebeyond.com/YUMIYU Code: “BEYOND” for 20% off! About the Guest Anne Wintemute is the Co-Founder and CEO of Aimee Says, the Al assistant for victims and survivors of relationship abuse. She is a fierce champion for the rights of survivors and children, and systems that hold perpetrators accountable. Prior to working with survivors, Anne founded and directed an elementary school that became a model for micro schools across the United States. In her spare time, she enjoys urban homesteading with her family in Denver, Colorado Website: http://www.aimeesays.com - D&B Listeners, use code Guthrie30 for two free months of Aimee at aimeesays.com. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-wintemute-897077106 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aimeesaysdv/ Make the Most of Your Listening Experience: If this episode resonates with you, be sure to: Subscribe to Divorce & Beyond so you never miss an episode. Share this episode with friends or loved ones who need hope and healing. Leave a 5-star review to help us reach even more listeners. Follow Us Online: Divorce & Beyond: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com, IG: @divorceandbeyondpod Meet Our Host Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation's leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant. Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC's Chicago Today, among many others. As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope. Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com. Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond! Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters Partner with Divorce & Beyond Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice. Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM
A single accusation can change your custody case overnight. Not because it's true, but because family court often runs on speed, risk avoidance, and a 51% preponderance-of-evidence standard where the better narrative can beat the better dad. We unpack why false allegations, CPS reports, and ex parte restraining orders function like a “silver bullet” against fathers, and what it takes to stop that story from hardening into a court order.We walk through the mission-critical hours after the ambush: why your instinct to explain can backfire, how your texts and tone can become “evidence,” and why emotional restraint is a legal strategy, not a personality trait. You'll get the exact law enforcement script we recommend using at the door, plus the non-negotiable rule that comes right after it: shut up and stop feeding the machine.From there, we shift into the counteroffensive that wins between court dates. We outline a communication lockdown using court approved apps, then show how to build a forensic paper trail with a contemporaneous log, receipts, GPS location data, and child-focused facts that third parties can't ignore. We also cover how to handle guardians ad litem and custody evaluators, when a forensic psychological evaluation can force objective scrutiny, and why playing defense in a high conflict divorce is a slow path to becoming a weekend visitor.If you're feeling the ground shift, don't guess. Listen, share this with a dad who needs it, and subscribe so you don't miss the next briefing. Then leave a rating or review and tell us what part of the strategy you want us to go deeper on. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
Slam The Gavel welcomes back Theo Chino to the podcast. Theo provides billing investigation and recovery support for people who feel like they're being bled dry by their representation. Theo explains that the education required to do a billing investigation is equivalent to knowing the rules of a simple playground game and having a grasp of basic arithmetic. If you can count and you KNOW that you shouldn't be charged for three different things hidden in one time block, that's what we call "Block Billing."To Reach Theo Chino: barinvestigation.com / 708-659-1990Supportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Things not to do before and during family court.
DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I'm joined by Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno, founder and director of the SHERA Research Group and lecturer in public health at the University of Manchester. Dr. Dalgarno's work focuses on the global harms caused by family court systems and the institutional abuse experienced by women and children navigating these legal processes.Through SHERA's groundbreaking research, Dr. Dalgarno and her international team have documented how family court engagement can produce profound health consequences for protective parents and children. Their studies reveal a disturbing pattern: when abuse is reported, mothers are frequently accused of “parental alienation,” their credibility is questioned, and the legal system often becomes an extension of the abuse rather than a source of protection.Together, we explore how coercive control continues after separation, how courts can become tools of post-separation abuse, and why the health impacts of family court trauma are still largely ignored by institutions responsible for protecting families.What we coverThe mission and global research of the SHERA Research GroupHow family court systems create institutional betrayal for survivorsThe health consequences of family court trauma for women and childrenThe “blueprint” pattern many protective parents experience after reporting abuseWhy parental alienation frameworks often silence abuse disclosuresThe concept of malicious fracturing of attachmentHow coercive control continues through legal systems after separationWhy systemic reform is necessary to protect children and survivorsWhy listenIf you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, researcher, attorney, or advocate, this episode offers crucial insight into how family court systems can perpetuate harm rather than stop it. Dr. Dalgarno's research provides evidence-based documentation of what protective parents have been saying for decades—and highlights why systemic reform is urgently needed.Guest bio (short)Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno is the founder and director of the SHERA Research Group, a global collective studying the health impacts of institutional abuse within family court systems. She is a lecturer in public health at the University of Manchester, where she teaches global women's public health and health system challenges. Her research focuses on the intersection of coercive control, institutional harm, and the health consequences experienced by women and children navigating family courts worldwide.Learn more about SHERA ResearchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherafamily_Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/sherafamilyBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sherafamilySubstack: Still Not Safe – Dr. DalgarnoConnect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/Books:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe to Perfect Prey, and consider leaving a review. Your support helps other survivors and protective parents find validation and clarity.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno
“I don't even know how I survived the days.” After surviving childhood trauma, domestic violence, and rebuilding her life in America from nothing, Zee Wilcox believed the hardest chapters were behind her — until a Texas family court judge removed her 7-year-old daughter without evidence. In this episode of the Starter Girlz Podcast, Jennifer Loehding sits down with American citizen, small business owner, mother of three, stepmother of five, and Texas House District 98 candidate Zee Wilcox for one of the most powerful conversations to date. Born and raised under communism in Czechoslovakia, Zee grew up in poverty as the oldest of six children, becoming a caregiver at just nine years old. At 21, she immigrated to the United States alone, barely speaking English, determined to build a better life. Years later, after leaving an abusive marriage, she found herself facing what she describes as a broken family court system — temporarily losing custody of her daughter in a ruling that was later fully overturned. What followed was not only a fight for her child, but a deeper reckoning with power, accountability, and the responsibility to use her voice. This episode explores resilience, generational trauma, domestic violence, judicial authority, and why embracing the start sometimes begins in your most painful chapter. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How early trauma can quietly shape identity, strength, and survival instincts The emotional cost of growing up in silence around abuse and instability What resilience looks like when starting over in a new country alone How unresolved wounds can influence the relationships we choose What it feels like to face a system that holds power over your family The emotional reality of losing custody — and fighting to regain it How financial strain compounds emotional trauma in prolonged court battles Why transparency and accountability matter in positions of authority What it takes to move from personal crisis into public advocacy How embracing the start sometimes begins in your hardest chapter ABOUT ZEE WILCOX Zee Wilcox is an American citizen, wife, mother of three, stepmother of five, small business owner, community advocate, and candidate for Texas House District 98. Born and raised in communist Czechoslovakia, she immigrated to the United States at age 21 with little English and no safety net. Through perseverance and grit, she built a business, a family, and a life rooted in resilience. After experiencing what she believes are systemic failures within the Texas family court system — including temporarily losing custody of her daughter in a ruling that was later overturned — Zee became a vocal advocate for judicial accountability and reform. She is now running for office with a mission to protect families, defend parental rights, and bring transparency to systems that directly impact children. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Teaser: “I Don't Even Know How I Survived”01:00 – Podcast Welcome and Sponsor04:00 – Growing Up Under Communism09:00 – Childhood Trauma and Caregiving at Nine15:00 – Coming to America Alone20:00 – Learning to Survive in a New Country26:00 – Domestic Violence and Narcissistic Abuse32:00 – Leaving the Marriage40:00 – The TRO and Losing Custody46:00 – The Courtroom Experience55:00 – Filing the De Novo Appeal01:02:00 – Overturning the Ruling01:10:00 – Financial and Emotional Costs01:18:00 – Judicial Accountability01:25:00 – Running for Texas House District 98 CONNECT WITH ZEE WILCOX Websites: zeeforhd98.com and theintentionalstore.com CONNECT WITH STARTER GIRLZWebsite: startergirlz.comTake the 2-Minute Success Block QuizJoin the Community NewsletterWant to be a guest on Starter Girlz? Apply HERE