The New Hampshire House of Representatives Committee on Children and Family Law convened on February 11, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding the family court system. The meeting featured testimonies from several individuals who expressed deep concerns about the current state of family law and its impact on children and parents.

The first speaker, a mother, shared her harrowing experience with the family court, detailing how her rights as a parent and her child's safety were compromised. She recounted a history of domestic violence involving her child's father, who has a criminal record for domestic violence and substance abuse. Despite these serious allegations, she reported that the court granted the father significant parenting time, which she argued endangered her child. Her testimony highlighted a perceived failure of the family court to protect victims of domestic violence and to prioritize the well-being of children.

Another individual, who spoke in support of House Bill 652, expressed skepticism about the fairness of the family court system. This speaker described a lengthy and contentious custody battle, alleging that the court favored one parent due to personal connections between the judge and the opposing attorney. They emphasized that the court's decisions led to significant restrictions on their parental rights, despite evidence of abuse against their child.

Randall Collier, another witness, called for the abolition of the family court, arguing that it operates outside the bounds of constitutional law. He criticized the lack of adherence to rules of evidence and claimed that the system perpetuates child abuse rather than protecting children. Collier's testimony underscored a broader sentiment among several speakers that the family court is fundamentally flawed and incapable of reform.

Aubrey Friedman echoed these sentiments, labeling the family court as a "rogue division" of government that fails to uphold due process. He argued that the systemic issues within the court cannot be resolved through reform and called for significant changes to the structure of family law in New Hampshire.

The meeting concluded with a clear sense of urgency among committee members regarding the need to address the concerns raised. The testimonies reflected a growing frustration with the family court system and a demand for reforms that prioritize the safety and rights of children and parents alike. The committee is expected to continue discussions on these issues in future sessions, with potential legislative actions on the horizon.