So you think you are an advocate for change in family law?

I have been circulating this list. I find it amazing how many claim to be an advocate for change and cannot answer everyone of this questions.

When I start training a newbie, these are all the things I require them to do.

So you think you are an advocate for change in family law.

If you cannot answer the following questions, then you are not and need to do your research.

1. Can you identify where your state’s statues concerning family are located on line?
2. Can you locate your state’s Rules of Civil Procedure are on line?
3. Can you identify where your State’s Rules of Evidence are on line?
4. Can you identify where your local county rules are on line?
5. Do you know where to find your own docket on line?
6. Can you identify the Amendment of the U.S. Constitution that places the right to decide matters of the family solely with the states?
7. Do you know the difference between a fundamental right and a Constitutional right?
8. Do you know who you state Senator or State Representative is? And where to find it?
9. Can you identify the exact language within your state law that is the problem?
10. Can you present the problem to legislators without talking about your own case?
11. Do you know the difference between the two types of child support?
12. Do you know how federal incentives really work and what they really give the states money for?
13. Do you read case law and do you know where to find it on line?
14. Do you know what questions will be asked of you by a legislator if you propose a change in family?
15. Do you know how to defeat the opposition’s stance when they bring it up?

Answer no to any of these questions and you are not an advocate and still have a lot to learn.

Ray R. Lautenschlager
www.ohiofamilyrights.info