Washington judges and advocates clash over family law reform in crucial HB 1620 hearing

The Washington Senate Law & Justice Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss critical amendments to House Bill 1620, which aims to reform family law proceedings, particularly in cases involving domestic violence and contested parenting plans. A significant focus of the meeting was the need for trauma-informed training for judicial officers, as highlighted by the Administrative Office of Courts.

Judge Monica Carey, a key witness, emphasized the importance of the original bill, arguing that it provides essential clarity and structure for judges in custody disputes. She warned that the amended version passed by the House could lead to confusion, particularly for unrepresented parties, potentially delaying resolutions and increasing court appearances.

The discussion revealed deep divisions among stakeholders. Advocates for domestic violence survivors, including Judge Carey and Karen White from the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, expressed strong opposition to the House's amendments, particularly the removal of provisions addressing the "abuse of conflict." They argued that this removal undermines protections for survivors and could exacerbate existing issues within the family court system.

Conversely, some supporters of the amended bill argued that it addresses concerns about the misuse of the term "abuse of conflict" in court, suggesting that it could prevent false allegations from being weaponized against protective parents. Testimonies from survivors underscored the emotional and psychological toll of navigating a system perceived as biased against them.

The committee also heard from legal experts who criticized the amendments for complicating the legal framework and potentially endangering children by failing to adequately address the complexities of domestic violence cases. They called for a return to the original bill, which they believe offers clearer guidelines and better protections for vulnerable families.

As the committee deliberates, the future of House Bill 1620 remains uncertain, with advocates urging lawmakers to prioritize the safety and well-being of children and survivors in their decision-making. The next steps will be crucial in determining how Washington's family law system evolves to better serve those affected by domestic violence.