Eric Avila

It is very important to have specific judges who are educated on and trained in how to handle cases of abuse and child custody. My experience is second-hand, but I have found myself repeatedly shocked at the decisions of our circuit court judge in a clear case of abuse by a man against his family. The judge does not seem to be aware of the myriad forms that abuse can take, and this has led to rulings that have been extremely damaging to the family's sense of safety and well-being. Multiple independent allegations of abuse have been made against the father by the family, friends, therapists, and physicians, and yet the judge has still seen fit to require paternal visitations and garnish joint financials to be solely in his control. I can only hope these judgements come from a lack of awareness and not maliciousness. This bill would go a long way to helping families like this to avoid further emotional damage and abuse at the hands of the current system. It is imperative that we have officials that are educated and trained in how to justly handle cases of domestic violence, and not the same judge that is ruling on evictions and burglaries. I implore our house members to pass this bill and help ensure a safer and more just process to protect families suffering from domestic violence. Thank you.