Join us as we unravel the complexities of family court with the insight of Stephanie, a TikTok sensation and domestic violence attorney from New York. Listen in as she shares her unexpected journey into the field of family law and uncovers the stark realities facing domestic violence victims within the legal system. Our conversation sheds light on the essential need for specialized domestic violence training for lawyers, the challenges victims face in custody battles, and the importance of acknowledging patterns of behavior that directly affect children. Stephanie also confronts common myths, such as the false perception that judges do not take abuse seriously and the overestimated frequency of false DV allegations.
Our discussion covers the subtle cues that can alter the course of a family court proceeding, such as a judge's facial expressions and body language during virtual trials. Stephanie recounts a telling experience where such nuances prompted a strategic shift in presenting evidence. We also tackle the prevalent misconception that being the "better parent" guarantees full legal custody, highlighting instead that joint legal custody is often the norm. The conversation extends to the intricate dynamics between parents when they disagree on crucial decisions for their children, emphasizing the necessity for concrete evidence and credible witnesses in DV cases.
In our final segment, we explore the influential role of attorneys for the child, known as law guardians or guardian ad litems, across various states. Stephanie illuminates the variations in their training and authority, particularly regarding domestic violence expertise. We consider a pivotal case in Canada where a self-represented woman triumphed against coercive control and the financial burdens of legal abuse in endless litigation. This chapter emphasizes the weight that unbiased reports from a child's attorney can carry in custody disputes, demonstrating the profound impact these advocates can have on the lives of children and families entangled in the legal system. Listen to this enlightening episode for a comprehensive look at the intersections of domestic violence and family court through the eyes of an experienced attorney.
