Category: Courts & Justice
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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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Are Protective Orders in California Criminal Cases Becoming Too Broad?
California’s use of protective orders in criminal cases has expanded, raising concerns about transparency and due process. Blanket orders restricting access to evidence, influenced by resource pressures, can hinder defendants’ rights. Critics call for clearer regulations, increased funding for evidence management, and greater consistency across counties to protect both victims and defendants.
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Oregon Judge Fines Attorney $2,000 for AI-Generated Errors — A Warning Shot to Courts Nationwide
An Oregon judge fined an attorney $2,000 for submitting an AI-generated legal filing that contained errors like fictitious cases and fabricated quotes. This case underscores growing concerns about lawyers relying on AI without proper verification. The ruling signals stricter enforcement of ethical standards and responsibility for accuracy in legal documents.
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Newsom Heads to Washington Seeking $33 Billion for Wildfire Recovery — But Critics Say Sacramento, Not D.C., Caused California’s Crisis
California continues to struggle with recovery from the Palisades and Eaton wildfires, despite Governor Newsom’s request for $33.9 billion in federal aid. Many Californians blame state mismanagement rather than Washington for delays in rebuilding, highlighting failures in infrastructure, vegetation management, and bureaucratic bottlenecks as key issues hindering recovery efforts.
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Portland’s Empty ‘Affordable’ Apartments Are a Warning to California
Portland’s housing policy faces criticism as nearly 1,900 subsidized units remain vacant amid a homelessness surge of 60-67% since 2023. Issues include bureaucratic inefficiencies, high rents for low-income families, and competition from market rates. Despite spending over $1.3 billion, the crisis worsens, raising concerns for similar policies in California.
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Border Patrol’s Warrantless Raid on Arizona Aid Camp Sparks Legal and Civil Liberties Questions
By Michael Phillips | CABayNews U.S. Border Patrol agents carried out a rare warrantless raid on a humanitarian aid camp in the Arizona desert last month, triggering new scrutiny over federal enforcement tactics and raising questions about whether the agency exceeded its legal authority. The November 23 operation targeted Byrd Camp, a small network of…
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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.
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The Psychiatric Weapon: How Mental Health Was Turned into a Weapon of Control
California’s family court system exploits psychological diagnoses to control parents, particularly those with ADHD and PTSD, turning mental health into profit. Through a network of unlicensed evaluators and therapists, parents face financial burdens while their traumas are weaponized against them. Brenna Gano’s case exemplifies systemic dysfunction, showcasing the urgent need for reform.
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California’s AB 495: A “Family Preparedness” Plan or a Backdoor Attack on Parental Rights?
California’s Assembly Bill 495, marketed as a way to assist families in crisis, raises alarm among critics for its vague language allowing almost anyone to become a child’s caregiver without parental consent or oversight. This bill potentially undermines parental rights, creates risks for children, and simplifies the process for potential predators to exploit loopholes.