Custody cases are meant to protect children — but in juvenile dependency court, the stakes are higher, and the consequences can be irreversible. This isn’t mom vs. dad. It’s the state vs. the parent, with the child caught in the crossfire. Award-winning family law attorney Lauren Johnson-Norris joins forensic psychologist Dana Anderson to reveal what really happens behind closed courtroom doors. From children torn from safe homes without cause, to tragedies like Gabriel Fernandez, whose abuse was reported but ignored, this episode uncovers the silent failures of the child protection system.

We also examine the haunting case of Shane Miller, a father with a violent past who murdered his wife and two daughters — a chilling reminder of what can happen when red flags are missed.
And we ask the harder question: What happens when CPS goes too far? When the effort to protect becomes the reason families are torn apart?

When child protection fails—or overreaches—lives are shattered. Step inside juvenile dependency court with a family law attorney and forensic psychologist who’ve seen it all.

You can connect with Lauren Johnson-Norris at californiacriminaldefender.com. 

Hire a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.



Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Juvenile Dependency Court
03:04 Understanding Parent Education and Advocacy
06:07 The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Family Dynamics
09:08 Challenges Faced by Families in Dependency Court
11:46 The Role of Substance Abuse and Mental Health
15:10 Systemic Issues in Child Protective Services
17:55 The Need for Comprehensive Support Services
21:05 The Role of Mental Health Professionals in Family Court
26:01 Navigating Mental Health in Family Law
30:55 The Complexities of Family Court
34:17 The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Family Law
38:41 Understanding Firearm Risks in Domestic Situations
42:28 The Importance of Empathy in Legal Work
47:43 Improving Child Protective Services
50:46 Finding Solutions in Family Law



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Book a forensic psychologist for your next legal case at www.psychologydr.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.