AFCC/AAML 2025 Conference Sessions 9 & 15 Evaluation |
Sessions 9 & 15: Private Judging in the Post-Pitt-Jolie Age
As family court systems grow increasingly congested and family law cases become more complex, more litigants are seeking solutions outside the traditional courtroom. Enter private neutrals—seasoned family law attorneys and retired judges—who are brought in to mediate, manage, and sometimes even preside over family law disputes. But in a landscape where privacy and neutrality are paramount, how can these principles truly be safeguarded? This dynamic program dives deep into the evolving role of private neutrals, uncovering the challenges and complexities of maintaining privacy and impartiality in family law proceedings. You’ll gain valuable insights as we explore how private is “private” in the age of high-stakes family litigation and the importance of protecting the process. We will examine the delicate balance of impartiality amidst complex family dynamics and professional relationships, and the ethical issues around conflict disclosures when dealing with repeat attorneys and intertwined cases. Finally, join us to consider real-world examples, strategic solutions, and candid discussions on what works—and what doesn’t—when navigating the increasingly popular path of private dispute resolution in family law.