The Justice File is a platform for truth, accountability, and reform—focused on how the law affects vulnerable children. Founded by former Massachusetts Juvenile Court Judge Carol Erskine, a Top Ten Massachusetts lawyer and author of A Cruel Injustice, the site features analysis, trial commentary, and investigative reporting on child welfare, constitutional rights, and domestic violence. Drawing on 21 years on the bench, Judge Erskine exposes systemic failures and calls for justice through articles, media appearances, and legal commentary.
Sweet Harmony Montgomery should still be alive. Instead, her tragic death has left her half-brother Jamison—now adopted by two loving dads—grieving the sister he adored. Unaware of the public outrage surrounding her case, Jamison simply says, “I wish she wouldn’t have died.” When a Massachusetts court gave custody of Harmony to her violent father in New Hampshire, her fate was sealed. Even in death, officials and lawyers have worked to silence her story to protect their own failures.
Due to scheduling conflicts, I will be appearing on Boston 25 next Monday now- February 9, 2026 to discuss the case of the 8-year-old whose father in Guatemala was originally granted custody. Looking forward once again to talking with Emmy award winning reporter Kerry Kavanaugh.
The "Massachusetts Seven" all died brutal deaths by homicide. Yet the state and DCF still push reunification or non-removal in cases where danger is absolutely clear. These are the victims of that policy. I'll continue to show their faces and I won’t stop fighting for change.
A WIN for an 8-year-old U.S. citizen.
After a long week and several earlier posts, I’m happy to share that the Juvenile Court has vacated its order sending this child to Guatemala. She was scheduled to be put on a plane next week. That will not happen.
It has been an honor to
My thanks to @moflatley for her invaluable assistance behind the scenes but at the national level.
