Self Represented Litigants Archives

No Counsel, No Help, No Justice: What Happens When the Family Court System Targets the Poor

June 5, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

William Sewell’s story highlights systemic failures in family courts that disadvantage poor parents. Denied legal aid and faced with ineffective representation, he experienced retaliation when seeking help. This reflects a broader issue where low-income individuals are punished for asserting their rights, revealing a need for significant reforms in the legal system.

Where Is the Oversight? NY Legislators Stay Silent as Family Court Abuses Continue

May 27, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Marc Fishman, denied due process and access to his children, symbolizes systemic abuse in New York’s family courts, where judges act without accountability. Despite evidence of misconduct and legislators’ awareness, reforms remain unaddressed, resulting in suffering families. Immediate legislative action and oversight are essential to restore justice in the system.

Paralyzed by Procedure: How Family Court Turns Technicalities Into Injustice

May 24, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Family court in New York often prioritizes procedural technicalities over truth, resulting in devastating consequences for parents like Marc Fishman, who struggles for access to his children due to bureaucratic failures. The system frequently dismisses claims based on flawed processes, not factual inaccuracies, highlighting an urgent need for reform to restore fair access to justice.

No Note-Taker, No Justice: How Family Court Denies ADA Rights

May 18, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

America’s family courts are violating the ADA by denying essential accommodations to disabled litigants like Marc Fishman, who faced obstacles accessing legal proceedings. This inconsistency represents a double standard compared to federal courts, undermining equal protection. Reform is crucial to ensure equitable access and accountability for family court judges regarding disability rights.

When Judges Judge Their Own Cases: Why Recusal Rules Fail in Family Court

May 15, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

In America’s family courts, the principle that no one should be a judge in their own case is often violated. The case of Marc Fishman highlights this issue, as Judge Michelle I. Schauer, with a contentious history with Fishman, asserts control over his custody case despite allegations of bias and ethical concerns, undermining judicial impartiality.