If you believe our family court system needs to do better for kids -- by supporting shared parenting and improving divorce laws -- one of the most powerful ways to raise your voice is by writing an op-ed or letter to the editor.
You don't have to be a lawyer or expert. You just need to care about the issue and communicate your message clearly and respectfully.
Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to help you speak up for family court reform:
- Letter to the Editor: A short, focused response to a recent article, editorial, or event covered by the newspaper.
- Op-Ed: A longer opinion piece you submit for consideration, sharing your viewpoint on an issue like shared parenting or family law reform.
If you're new to this, starting with a letter to the editor is a great first step. Both formats can influence public opinion and decision-makers.
Many people believe the family court system is broken -- but lawmakers and the public won't know how widespread the concern is unless they hear from people like you.
Op-eds and letters:
✔ Raise awareness about the need for shared parenting laws
✔ Put pressure on courts and lawmakers to prioritize children's well-being
✔ Show that family law reform has broad public support
Your voice adds to the growing call for change.
Before you write, read the paper. Who are the typical readers?
Is it a small-town paper? A big-city outlet? Conservative or progressive?
Frame your message in a way that connects. For example:
"No matter your politics, we can all agree that kids do best when both parents stay actively involved after divorce."
- Letters to the editor: Aim for 150--250 words
- Op-eds: Usually 500--750 words
Don't try to cover every problem with family courts. Focus on one key point, such as:
✔ Why shared parenting should be the starting point in custody cases
✔ How outdated laws hurt kids and families
✔ Your personal experience with the system
Hook: Start with something attention-grabbing -- a fact, personal story, or connection to a recent news story.
Explain Your Point: Clearly state your opinion. Back it up with facts, personal experience, or both.
Call to Action/Conclusion: End with a strong statement about what needs to change -- a new law, more public discussion, or policy reform.
Family court battles are emotional. But angry, hostile letters rarely get published -- and they won't win hearts and minds.
Speak firmly but stay respectful. It shows maturity and keeps the focus where it belongs: on improving outcomes for children.
- Facts build credibility. For example: "Over 60 studies show kids do best when both parents stay involved after divorce."
- Personal stories create emotional connection. For example: "As a father who spent two years in court just to see my child, I know firsthand how broken the system is."
Together, they make your message hard to ignore.
Check the newspaper's website for:
✔ Word limit
✔ Submission method (email, online form, etc.)
✔ Required information (name, city, phone number)
Editors often reject submissions that don't follow guidelines -- no matter how strong the message is.
Dear Editor,
Our state's family court system is overdue for reform. Right now, too many loving parents -- and their children -- suffer under outdated custody laws that don't reflect what research shows: Kids thrive when both parents stay involved after divorce.
As a [parent/grandparent/community member], I've seen the emotional toll the current system takes. We need shared parenting laws that start with the assumption that both parents should have equal time, unless there's clear evidence otherwise.
It's time for lawmakers to put children first and fix our broken family courts.
Sincerely,
[Your Name], [Your City]
Change starts with speaking up. Writing an op-ed or letter to the editor is a simple, effective way to advocate for shared parenting and fair family court laws.
You don't have to be a legal expert -- your lived experience, your concern for kids, and your voice are powerful tools for reform.
Let your community -- and your lawmakers -- know that family law should focus on what matters most: helping children maintain strong, loving relationships with both parents after divorce.
