Ideas PT 1 | An injustice system where 'you can buy your way out'
Jan 29, 2026
Chloe, a low-income mother who lost custody after a contested trial, shares the emotional and financial fallout. Jennifer, a parent turned legal advocate, recounts years representing herself and now pushes for court alternatives. Lenny Abramowitz, a legal advocate, explains how professionalized law and unaffordable counsel skew access to justice. They discuss wealth shaping outcomes, self-representation struggles, and systemic reforms.
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Legal System Favors The Professionally Trained
- The legal system is professionalized so only elites with legal training can effectively navigate courtrooms.
- Self-represented litigants face a severe disadvantage when opposing experienced counsel, producing unequal outcomes.
Family Court Is Dominated By Self-Representation
- Most people in family court cannot afford lawyers and very few qualify for legal aid.
- In some jurisdictions up to 80% of family court litigants now appear without counsel.
Sudden Custody Suit Blew Through Savings
- Jennifer was unexpectedly served with a custody claim and hired a lawyer charging $350/hr, which quickly ballooned to over $20,000.
- She spent over $50,000 in three months and later represented herself at trial after she could no longer afford counsel.