The Judgemental Podcast – Episode 15: "Shady Dealings"
Hosts: Hugh & Christine
Summary:
In this episode, Hugh and Christine dive deep into recent developments in Louisville’s family and district courts, focusing on judicial accountability, transparency, and the controversial practices surrounding Friends of Court (FOCs) and the Adair vs. Emberton case.
Key Topics:
- Courtroom attendance and judicial roll call: Observations on which courts and judges are showing up and which are not.
- Listener feedback: Real-time reports from court attendees via the Judge-y app, highlighting late dockets and delays.
- The Adair vs. Emberton case:
- What the case means for FOCs, their required reports, and due process rights for litigants.
- Concerns about FOCs and judges allegedly coordinating to bypass statutory requirements.
- The importance of the 10-day rule for FOC reports and the right to cross-examine.
- Discussion of whether attorneys can or should waive these rights for their clients.
- Due process in family law:
- Examples of hearings lacking proper notice, preparation, or sworn testimony.
- The impact on pro se litigants and the broader implications for justice.
- Audience engagement:
- Listeners are encouraged to share their stories if they’ve been asked to waive Adair vs. Emberton, especially without proper client consultation.
- Call for transparency and adherence to the law from all court participants.
Notable Quotes:
- “Let’s not come up with plans to circumvent the law out of convenience. Let’s follow the law. Let’s give parents their due process rights.”
- “If there has been some sort of coordination with the judges and the FOCs to find a way to waive a Kentucky statute that is there to protect parents... that’s frightening as hell.”
- “Due process, in the simplest terms, is just notice and an opportunity to be heard.”
Calls to Action:
- Submit your stories to Judge-y if you’ve been asked to waive Adair vs. Emberton or have experienced questionable court practices.
- Follow Judge-y on Instagram and tag the show in viral clips.
Links:
Thank you for listening!
