JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 111: Back for More
After a three-month hiatus, Christine and Trey are back — and the courts haven't gotten any better. In this episode, they dive back into the dysfunction plaguing Louisville's Jefferson Family Court, including major updates on cases they've been tracking, a new website launch, and some rare good news from the bench.
In This Episode:
We're back! The new judge-y.com website is live, merch is available, and the Judge-y app is ready for you to join. Follow the podcast on socials @Judgingthejudges and help keep the accountability moving.
Christine's mugshot merch — it's real, it's available, and the jury trial is still never happening (though Trey can confirm that much).
Due process violations are everywhere. Christine and Trey discuss how 100% of the cases they're hearing about now involve some form of constitutional violation — specifically, restrictions or loss of constitutionally protected rights without a hearing. Parents are going hundreds of days without access to their children, and no hearing has ever been held.
Adair v. Emberton — and why it matters. The Kentucky Court of Appeals issued clear published case law forbidding FOCs (Friend of the Court officers) from participating at motion hour without proper cross-examination protections. That law applies to every judge in Kentucky. And yet…
It's back to business as usual. Judge Bryan Gatewood — whose case generated the Adair ruling — is reportedly back to allowing FOCs to participate at motion hour as if the ruling never happened. Christine makes clear: she will file a complaint every single time she witnesses a violation.
FOCs scrolling on their phones and billing clients while sitting through hearings that have nothing to do with the children in their cases. Christine recounts watching FOC Jim Murphy do exactly that during a Derwin Webb court proceeding.
The rule of cross-examination. KRS 403.300(3): "A party may not waive his right of cross-examination prior to the hearing." Christine and Trey break down why this statute is unambiguous and why FOCs being present at motion hour creates compounding evidentiary problems — especially outside Jefferson County where testimony may actually occur on the record.
Judge Angela Johnson (Division 1) gets a nuanced mention: she was observed not rubber-stamping Jim Murphy's FOC opinion when it became clear he wasn't up to speed on the case — but has continued to appoint him since.
Rare praise: Christine witnessed Abigail Green serve as an outstanding FOC in Judge Shellie Santry's courtroom — professional, prepared, deescalating, and laser-focused on the best interest of the child. Judge Santry also appropriately called the child to speak and handled Christine's presence in the courtroom respectfully. This is a one-day observation, not a blanket endorsement.
Coming up next: The traumatic Bevin hearing, big moves in the Bridgeman case, and Trey's favorite judge.
Links & Resources:
Website: judge-y.com
App: Download and join the Judge-y app at judge-y.com
Social: Follow us @Judgingthejudges
Merch: Available now at judge-y.com
Adair v. Emberton – KY Court of Appeals published decision on FOC participation at motion hour
KRS 403.300(3) – Cross-examination statute
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal advice. Engaging with this content does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and the hosts, guests, or their firms. The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any law firm, company, or organization. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information presented. Any reliance on the information in this podcast is at your own risk. Laws are constantly changing, and every situation is unique. You should always seek the advice of a qualified attorney for your specific legal concerns.
