JudgeMental Podcast – Episode 91

Just No

In this episode, the Hosts dive into a viral TikTok posted by a regularly appointed Friend of the Court (FOC) in Louisville — made immediately after a hearing in Judge Shelly Ry's courtroom. The clip, set to "I got these bitches mad again," sparked outrage and a broader conversation about accountability, power, and professionalism in the family court system.

What We Cover:

• The FOC TikTok: Christine and Hugh react to a TikTok posted by a Louisville FOC following a hearing, captioned "Man, doing your job really pisses people off. Off to drinks with the girls. #FYP #lawyer #unbothered." The hosts break down why this is not just tone-deaf — it's dangerous.
• Power Without Accountability: FOCs and GALs have extraordinary access to children, families, and court decisions. They can interrupt kids at school, communicate with minors directly, and their reports are adopted as court orders more than 90% of the time — yet there is virtually no public accountability for their conduct.
• The Jefferson County Pattern: Christine and Hugh revisit the Jefferson County family court system's reliance on a rotating group of FOC/GAL appointees, the front-row "vultures" at motion hour, and why judges continue appointing controversial figures despite widespread frustration.
• The TikTok Judges: A callback to the Jefferson County family court judges' now-infamous Christmas TikTok (featuring Cardi B lyrics). Christine notes that Judge Lori Goodwin of Division Three did not participate — and gives her credit for it.
• Holly Houston Stands Up: A Jefferson County family law attorney reportedly walked into Division Four and, when the judge moved to appoint Julie Resnick and Patience Fitzpatrick, simply said: no. The judge's response? "Oh. Okay." Christine and Hugh discuss why this moment matters and what it could mean if more attorneys followed suit.
• How to Preserve Your Rights: Christine explains the practical mechanics of objecting to a GAL or FOC appointment for the record — and why doing so, even if you lose, is critical for preserving appellate issues.
• What Could Actually Change the System:
• Appellate courts spelling out when GAL/FOC appointments are and aren't appropriate
• Legislative reform addressing third-party appointments by statute
• Judicial time sheets and accountability measures
• Attorneys collectively refusing to agree to appointments
• The "Judge-y" Community Update: Christine encourages listeners to share their stories — positive and negative — about their experiences with FOCs and GALs in the Judge-y community. Find it at judge-y.com or follow @Judgingthejudges for updates.

Download the Judge-y App to rate judges, share your courthouse experiences, and connect with others navigating the family court system. Available at judge-y.com.

Follow Us:

• TikTok & Social: @Judgingthejudges
• Community & App: judge-y.com

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.