Family court expert advocates for therapeutic interventions amid high conflict cases

The Joint Legislative Ad Hoc Committee on Family Court Orders convened on April 14, 2025, to address pressing issues within Arizona's family court system. The meeting focused on the complexities surrounding therapeutic interventions, particularly Therapeutic Intervention (T.I.), and the challenges faced by families embroiled in high-conflict custody disputes.

The session began with a discussion on the emotional toll and financial burden that family court proceedings impose on families. A key speaker emphasized that many complaints regarding T.I. stem not from the intervention itself but from dissatisfaction with case outcomes. Parents often feel polarized and may misuse tools intended to facilitate healing, leading to further conflict. The speaker clarified that T.I. is not a common experience for most families but is typically applied in high-conflict cases involving mental health issues.

T.I. was described as a structured approach aimed at restoring safety and improving family dynamics, akin to traditional family therapy but adapted for court-involved situations. The speaker noted that T.I. is often more cost-effective than lengthy custody evaluations and litigation, which can escalate into tens of thousands of dollars. They shared a personal account of navigating a decade-long custody battle, highlighting the detrimental effects of prolonged litigation on children and families.

Committee members raised questions about the court's role in addressing children's needs during these proceedings. Concerns were voiced regarding the infrequency of direct communication between the court and minors involved in custody disputes. The discussion also touched on the complexities of parental alienation and the challenges parents face in addressing objectionable behaviors without alienating their children.

The meeting underscored the need for a collaborative approach among parents, mental health professionals, and the judiciary to develop effective solutions for families in conflict. The speaker concluded by advocating for the continuation of T.I. as a vital resource, emphasizing that families require ethical and accessible tools for resolution and healing.

Overall, the committee's discussions highlighted the intricate dynamics of family court cases and the necessity for thoughtful interventions that prioritize children's well-being amidst parental disputes. The meeting concluded with a call for further exploration of collaborative solutions to enhance the family court system's effectiveness.