Essex Probate and Family Court

Impact of Family Courts on Fathers' Mental Health Suicidal Rates Among Fathers Research indicates that family breakdown significantly affects men's mental health. Approximately 20% of suicides among middle-aged men are linked to family issues, particularly the stress of being denied access to their children. Divorced fathers are estimated to be 2.5 to 3 times more likely to commit suicide than their married counterparts. Cases of Suicide Linked to Family Court Proceedings Several tragic cases highlight the severe consequences of family court decisions. Studies have shown that some fathers, after enduring prolonged legal battles and feeling powerless in court, have taken their own lives. The emotional toll of being separated from their children and the perceived injustices of the court system contribute to this distress. Factors Contributing to Mental Health Decline Parental Alienation Claims: Many fathers face accusations of parental alienation, which can lead to losing contact with their children. This concept is often used in court to counter allegations of abuse, further complicating their situation. Legal and Financial Strain: The financial burden of legal fees and child support can exacerbate stress, leading to feelings of hopelessness. Lack of Support: Fathers often report feeling isolated during court proceedings, with little emotional or social support from friends and family. Need for Reform There is a growing call for reform in family court systems to better address the mental health needs of fathers and to ensure fair treatment in custody disputes. The current system is seen as biased, often favoring mothers and failing to recognize the psychological impact on fathers facing separation from their children.

I had trouble filing probate after a death and James blatantly told me she would not help me. Told me that everyone else didn’t have a problem so it was me and when I asked for some sort of assistance she refused in an unprofessional and exceedingly rude manner. It’s not hard to just give someone a tip instead of telling them to search the internet when it’s your job to help them. Completely unacceptable.

During my recent visit to the Essex County Probate Court I was helped by three seperate women at the front desk. All were extremely knowledgable, helpful, and patient in helping me file probate documents. They reviewed the filings and made very helpful suggestions to ensure the process would go smoothly.

It would be nice if all teams would work on the same schedule, not one team just can close and the rest needs to keep working. Hard to people get everything ready in one visit.

“Annette” - must be a receptionist of some sort. Incredibly unprofessional, lost her patience and tone with the applicant. After the applicant was abundantly clear they weren’t familiar with this process and needed to know I was at the right location (regarding a death certificate in the property county to obtain my mother property) and she quickly lost her patience raising her voice at the applicant. The applicant then held professionalism ending the conversation apologizing for any miscommunication. Annette, you work for the people, have some professionalism. It’s sad. I’ll be writing emails and reviews wherever is available. I sincerely hope it’s a recorded line. 11:14 am on 11.15.2024

This court house is the worst. I have had to deal with them a couple times due to an ex husband who needs control over my kids. I have had to deal with this court for 2 years now and been waiting for a decision to mailed out to me for over 2 months now. Yeah you heard me MAILED OUT! Who does that? I have had Judge Black who literally will barely listen to what I have to say. Any evidence that I have won’t be looked at because to her that’s an evidence motion. Makes no sense especially when the evidence is trying to show I have been the one to take care of my kids mainly and be their advocate. I have had to remind Judge Black of things because she does motions or hearings 3 months out and can’t remember most of what has been done in the last 2 years. She made an unfair decision 2 years and changed an order that was in place for 6 years with my ex husband agreeing to it at that time. She will not step down from a case and because she is a Judge has pretty much the authority to do as she pleases. Most of the clerks there are both rude and not exactly helpful. Some of the security is nice but one in particular I swear thinks he is the top notch and talks and treats you the WORSE. This court house is not looking at the well being of children involved at all. I have heard many stories of how the Judges there are giving more rights to abusive fathers whether it be physical or verbal. So the children in the end up suffering including both my children and that is so wrong, sad and pathetic to deal with from a family court house that is suppose to help children and not make them worse. They all over at that court house should be ashamed and removed with people and Judges that treat you fairly and aren’t rude to the point they seem stuck up. That won’t happen though. Salem Courts are they worse!

It’s just a disgusting inhumane and corrupt place. The Judges are never looking at the child’s best interest or needs even when they are far too young to be going without either biological parent… Shameful. Corruption at its finest. Wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.

The cashier closes at 4! Got there at 4:00 - they close at 4:30. Because the cashier was closed, I could not pay the $25 fee so I could not file. Cashier should be open until closing - makes no sense. I will add, called to ask a question at another time and the person I spoke to was exremely helpful which is the reason for 4 stars and not 1.

I just want to thank the highly competent woman at the Virtual Registry, who worked on January 12, 2024. The case I am examining is highly complex, and the lady who helped me, made my job, almost pleasant!

Any grandparents looking for rights to see their grandchildren..unless the child has broken ribs or black eyes they will not get visitation..the law makes no sense..it states unless the child is in severe harm then no visitation will happen unless one parent agrees. but then why not go for guardianship..the law is very obscure and contradicts itself in the wording. Don't hire a lawyer either..it will not help matters either way. Don't bother writing an affidavit or filing, the judge did not even read it or look our way much less speak to us. The only person that got attention was the unruly and disrespectful father ranting at the judge with all kinds of false accusations. We will never go there again seeking justice..be wise and handle it outside of court if possible.