In this episode, Frank & Alyssa get personal as they share a portion of their families recent experience with CPS and their 8 year custody battle. They interview Judge Scharlene Valdez from Montgomery County Court at Law no. 6. and discuss the justice system's impact on families, focusing on trauma-informed practices and the importance of family restoration. Judge Valdez shares her experiences in Montgomery County, highlighting the Justice Involved Youth Advocacy Program that she founded and the significance of community collaboration. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy, integrity, and proactive support for families and youth in the legal system.

Key Takeaways

• The justice system can be both a challenge and a support for families.
• Trauma-informed practices are essential in family and juvenile law.
• Community collaboration is key to supporting families in the legal system.
• Empathy and integrity are crucial for legal professionals.
• The Justice Involved Youth Advocacy Program is making a difference in Texas.
• Family restoration should be a priority in legal proceedings.
• Judge Valdez emphasizes the importance of proactive support for families.
• Legal systems should focus on rehabilitation and accountability.
• Community resources can aid in family and youth support.
• Strong family units contribute to a strong community.

Chapters

• Empathy in Action: Transforming the Justice System
• Family First: A New Approach to Legal Challenges
• Restoring Families: A Judge's Perspective
• Youth Advocacy: Changing Lives in Texas
• Trauma-Informed Justice: A New Era
• Community Collaboration: Building Stronger Families
• Integrity in the Courtroom: A Judge's Journey
• Rehabilitation Over Punishment: A Legal Revolution
• Supporting Families: The Heart of Justice
• A New Path: Family Restoration in Law

"The justice system can support families." "Trauma-informed practices are essential." "Community collaboration is key." "Empathy and integrity matter." "Youth advocacy changes lives." "Family restoration is a priority." "Proactive support for families." "Focus on rehabilitation and accountability." "Community resources aid support." "Strong families build strong communities."

Sound Bites

• 00:00:00 Introduction to the Justice System's Impact
• 00:03:00 Trauma-Informed Practices in Law
• 00:06:00 Community Collaboration and Youth Advocacy
• 00:09:00 Empathy and Integrity in Legal Support
• 00:12:00 Family Restoration and Rehabilitation

KeywordsTakeawaysTitle OptionsSound bitesChapters

Judge Valdez Website

https://www.keepjudgevaldez.com/

Meet & Greet Opportunity: Judge Valdez will be hosted next Monday at The Rusty Buckle in Splendora, TX @5:30 PM

Mosaics of Mercy

https://mosaicstx.org/

Voting information:

Last Day to Register to Vote: February 2, 2026

Early Voting Begins: February 17, 2026

Where to register in Texas:https://www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote/index.html