EP 71 Unwarranted

EPISODE 71: UNWARRANTED - SHOW NOTESEpisode OverviewHugh and Christine are back after a break with exciting news about their upcoming app launch during "spooky season." They discuss the challenges of building a comprehensive database of judges across all 50 states and the shocking lack of transparency in the judicial system. The main focus of this episode is a bizarre motion filed by a removed Friend of the Court (FOC) attorney in a Kentucky family court case that has been ongoing since the Court of Appeals ruled in the father's favor.Key Topics DiscussedThe Judge-y App LaunchAnnouncement of the upcoming app launch (date TBA - "spooky season")The app will feature a comprehensive database of judges from all 50 statesUsers will be able to review judges, follow specific courts, and share experiencesThe research revealed that most states have no easily accessible list of judicial officersStates with good resources: Florida, Indiana, CaliforniaStates with poor resources: Alabama and othersThe app aims to bring transparency to the court system and help people make informed decisions about judicial electionsTransparency in the CourtsDiscussion of the critical need for cameras and recording devices in every courtroomThe problem of sealed cases and lack of official recordsHow transcripts alone aren't enough - video evidence is crucialReference to the Vanta case and Judge Ogden's controversial statementsThe Allison Russell MotionDetailed analysis of a 7-page motion to withdraw filed by FOC Allison RussellRussell was removed from the case in May 2025 but filed the motion anywayThe motion mentions the JudgeMental Podcast by nameContains "uncontroverted facts" that are actually opinions and hearsayFiled in Judge Bryan Gatewood's courtroomDiscussion of why this filing is problematic:FOCs cannot file substantive motionsShe was no longer on the caseThe motion appears to be a "dog whistle" to the new judgeContains prejudicial information that shouldn't be in the recordMay not be protected by immunity since she was removed from the caseLegal and Ethical IssuesDiscussion of Rule 11 sanctions and why they may not have been filedThe strategic decision to file a motion to strike insteadQuestions about immunity for attorneys who file improper pleadingsThe problem of "thin-skinned" court appointees who can't handle criticismHow this case illustrates systemic problems in family courtCase BackgroundFather won at the Court of AppealsJudge Ogden refused to comply with the appellate rulingFather had to fight extensively to regain parenting timeJudge Ogden was eventually removed from the caseCase transferred to Judge Bryan GatewoodChristine has been following this case since April 2024Important LinksWebsite: judge-y.comSocial Media: @JudgingthejudgesComing Next EpisodeDiscussion of the "180 Day Mom" case - a mother who was served a warrant for six months in jail when she wasn't present at the hearing and was at the hospital.LEGAL DISCLAIMERThe 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.