The article summarizes the difficulties faced by Janae Gossel, who is entangled in a custody dispute with her ex-boyfriend, Joe Roberson. After moving 200 miles away, they struggle to agree on transportation arrangements for their daughter. Gossel's lack of legal representation, despite previously hiring a lawyer and seeking pro bono assistance, underscores the obstacles many face in navigating family law. Judge Joseph Goldstein emphasizes the need for structure in court proceedings while the article also points to national disparities in access to free legal assistance for parents in custody cases, illustrating systemic issues in the legal system.
"I know this seems a little awkward, but this is not a conversation: You're in a court of law. It's an examination." - Judge Joseph Goldstein
"In the beginning, Gossel said, she paid a lawyer $5,000, only to be told after two court appearances that she would need another $5,000 to continue."
"We don't have those up here." - Janae Gossel, on the lack of pro bono legal assistance in her new location.
"The availability of this kind of help nationally varies widely, from places that have next to no free assistance to jurisdictions like New York, where indigent parents have a right to court-appointed lawyers in custody disputes."
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