A retirement benefit can be a major asset in a divorce and may be the key to providing financial security to a domestic violence survivor. To effectively divide this asset, though, federal and state provisions…
This brief offers practical tips for visitation and exchange arrangements, suggestions for terms to include in the custody order or parenting plan, and overarching principles to keep in mind when tailoring an order to the…
This preliminary study developed for the State Justice Institute (SJI) by the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ) attempted to take an initial look at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on…
This technical assistance brief discusses the dynamics of Teen Dating Violence (TDV), best strategies for courts working with teen victims and perpetrators, and issuing relief to best meet the needs of youthful parties. Judges are…
This infographic explains the benefits of community-based alternatives to secure confinement for justice-involved youth as well for as the communities where they live. It also offers steps to guide judges on providing leadership for developing alternatives.…
Juvenile court judges are the most important public figures in the juvenile justice system—their decisions impact whether hundreds of thousands of youth each year become court involved and for how long, whether they are involuntarily…
This letter by Judge Katherine Tennyson (Ret.), discusses how education on animal neglect and abuse can inform decision making for judges, both on and off the bench. She provides resources so that judges may take…
Resolution Regarding Standards for the Secure Care of Youth Adopted March 12, 2022 by the NCJFCJ Board of Directors, Pittsburgh, PA. Download Publication
Over the past 25 years, researchers from many academic disciplines, and professionals working in both humane and human services, have established significant correlations between animal abuse, child abuse, domestic violence, elder abuse, and other forms…
Many litigants seek court-ordered safety measures to prevent and mitigate violence and abuse in their lives. While courts implement general safety measures to address public health concerns, special considerations may be needed to ensure safety…
This document answers frequently asked questions relating to firearms and civil protection orders. Main topics include enforcement of jurisdiction and federal protection order laws, suggested collaboration efforts, information regarding a respondent’s access to firearms, addressing…
This document provides a set of suggested practices and strategies for consideration by courts seeking to improve compliance with custody and parenting time orders. Main topics include exercising judicial leadership, crafting orders with enforceability and…