After hearing attorney Tyrie Strong of Strong Family Law speak about coercive control at the 2025 Idaho Child Custody & Domestic Relations Task Force, Miste from Liberty Talks wanted to continue the conversation. Tyrie had testified briefly at the hearing, but the topic raised important questions about domestic violence, child custody, family court, and whether Idaho law should better recognize patterns of control that may not always look like physical abuse.
In the video “Should a Definition for Coercive Control Be Added to Idaho Law?”, Tyrie expands on her knowledge of coercive control and discusses why this issue matters for parents navigating family law and child protection cases. The conversation focuses on whether adding coercive control to Idaho’s definition of domestic violence, similar to what Washington State has done, could help abused parents be heard more clearly in family court.
Coercive control is often described as a pattern of behavior used to dominate, intimidate, isolate, monitor, or restrict another person’s freedom. It may include financial control, threats involving the children, manipulation, surveillance, isolation from support systems, intimidation, or repeated behavior that makes a person feel trapped or unable to make independent decisions.
This issue is especially important in custody cases because abuse is not always limited to visible injuries or isolated incidents. When a parent is trying to explain what has happened to them or their children, the court may need to understand the larger pattern of behavior. Without language for coercive control, many survivors may struggle to explain why a situation feels unsafe, threatening, or harmful, even when there has not been a recent act of physical violence.
The video also encourages parents who have experienced coercive control, domestic violence, or related concerns in family court or CPS court to share their experiences. Public input can help legislators better understand what families are facing and where changes to Idaho law may be needed. The goal is to create opportunities for parents to be heard and to help lawmakers consider reforms that may improve safety for children and protective parents.
At Strong Family Law, these conversations are deeply connected to the work we do for clients. Family law cases involving custody, domestic violence, coercive control, child protection, or CPS involvement are often complex and emotionally difficult. They require careful legal strategy, thoughtful documentation, and an understanding of how abuse can affect both parents and children.
Tyrie Strong’s advocacy reflects a broader commitment to improving legal protections for survivors and helping Idaho’s family court system better recognize patterns of abuse. By participating in public conversations, legislative discussions, and professional education, she works to support changes that help courts prioritize safety, accountability, and the long-term well-being of children.
If your family law matter involves custody, domestic violence, coercive control, child safety, or concerns about how to explain your experience in court, Strong Family Law can help you understand your options and prepare for the next step.
Watch the video here:
Should a Definition for Coercive Control Be Added to Idaho Law?
