Statement on Minor’s Counsel Role

When I began working as a family law attorney, I decided to move from litigation to mediation and collaborative law to promote healing for those involved in these complex and difficult matters. 

I quickly noticed that the most unfortunate victims in the family law system were the children who were being dragged through litigation. Some wanted a voice, some didn’t as it meant they had to choose between two parents they loved. A vindictive parent brainwashed some. Some were emotionally abused. Their only chance at becoming healthy adults was for someone to intervene on their behalf. 

I became a minor's counsel to help kids even more. It is the most thankless job I have ever done, but I still love it because of the importance of this role in helping children heal. I am paid 25% of my normal rate and, usually, one or both parents do not like what I have to say. 

I base my recommendations on evidence, clinical input from medical professionals, ad experience. A child's preference should be heard and respected. But the child also has to be mature enough and mentally healthy enough for that preference to represent what is best for the child. Too many times, I have seen children coached to want to live with one parent when the parent coaching them is mentally manipulating them. But kids just want to be loved and taken care of and, understandably, are often unable to fully process the dynamic they find themselves in. 

I have been blessed to have a loving family and to have been able to go to law school. I am where I am because of the generous people who helped me along the way, even when I did not always appreciate or deserve it. I am a minor’s counsel so that I can give a chance to those without a voice in this system. I consider it the most important work I’ve ever done. 

​Sincerely,
Emily F. Robinson, Esq.