Category: Family Court
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Idaho Lawmakers Move to Modernize Child Custody Laws After Years of Family Court Complaints
Idaho lawmakers are initiating significant reforms to the state’s outdated child custody and family court laws, responding to long-standing concerns about inefficiencies and negative impacts on children. A bipartisan task force is drafting legislation aimed at modernizing statutes, improving law enforcement involvement, and ensuring that children’s voices are heard in custody matters.
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Oregon Lawmaker Revives Foster Youth Rights Bill After Gov. Kotek’s Veto
An Oregon lawmaker reintroduces legislation aiming to expand rights for foster children, previously vetoed by Governor Kotek due to cost and legal concerns. The bill seeks to enhance care standards, but critics argue existing system failures must be addressed first. The renewed push reflects ongoing public pressure for meaningful reform in Oregon’s foster care system.
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California’s New Joint Divorce Law Signals a Shift Away From Family Court Warfare
California’s Senate Bill 1427, effective January 1, 2026, introduces a joint petition process for divorces, allowing couples who agree on key issues to file together amicably. This reform aims to reduce costs, expedite resolutions, and lessen emotional harm to children, potentially serving as a model for other states facing similar family court challenges.
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California Family Courts Under Scrutiny: Minors’ Counsel, Taxpayer Costs, and a System Resisting Oversight
An investigative report by The Davis Vanguard highlights issues in California family courts regarding the appointment of minors’ counsel and parenting coordinators, raising concerns about costs, conflicts of interest, and oversight. Critics argue for reform to enhance transparency and accountability, emphasizing that unchecked systems undermine the original intent to protect children’s best interests.
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Utah Mother Allegedly Flees to Europe With Four Children, Igniting Renewed Fears Over Parental Abduction and System Failures
A Utah parental abduction case involves Elleshia Anne Seymour, who allegedly took her four children overseas, violating custody agreements. As they remain missing, the case highlights failures in family court enforcement and passport systems. Advocates stress the importance of safeguarding parental rights and preventing unlawful international travel in custody disputes.
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Idaho Lawmakers Move Toward Sweeping Child Custody Reform—With New Penalties for Violations
Idaho lawmakers are set to overhaul child custody laws, addressing years of concerns about inconsistent rulings and parental rights deprivations. The new proposals, driven by the Child Custody and Domestic Relations Task Force, include a presumption of 50/50 joint custody, stronger enforcement measures, and provisions for child safety, aiming for clearer justice in family courts.
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Oregon Senator Sounds Alarm on Family Courts—Raising Questions Californians Should Not Ignore
Oregon is experiencing increasing scrutiny over family courts, spurred by Senator Suzanne Weber’s concerns about unchecked judicial power and limited transparency. Complaints have emerged from constituents highlighting systemic issues, echoing similar criticisms in California. The lack of accountability and federal funding influences demand nationwide reform, though responses remain sparse.
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When Family Court Fails: What Las Vegas’ “Judging the Judges” Survey Misses — And Why California Should Worry
A new survey of Clark County Family Court judges reveals alarming error rates, low retention scores, and rising secrecy—issues California’s own courts must not ignore.
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Coercive Control Laws Are Spreading — But Are They Defining Abuse or Criminalizing Relationships?
As states implement coercive control laws to enhance domestic violence protections, a debate arises about the balance between victim safety and potential government overreach. Critics highlight vague definitions and risk of false allegations in custody disputes, while advocating for objective evidence requirements and due process safeguards to protect legitimate victims without eroding constitutional rights.
California Bay News 