Are CA family courts declaring pro se parents Vexatious Litigants to force them to hire a lawyer?

What “vexatious litigant” parent means in California

A parent represents himself or herself in a California “family” court and a family law judge rules against the parent three times.

Does this happen in family court custody cases?

Yes, it is usually about punishing the parent in order to steer them into hiring a lawyer and the parent doesn’t have sufficient funds to punish him or her through sanctions. 

Important reality check

• The overwhelming costs of family courts have driven parents to represent themselves. 
• The resources available to pro se parents (without funds needed to navigate the system) have been expanded allowing more parents to successfully represent themselves
• The number of pro se parents continues to increase

What are other methods judges use to force parents to hire an attorney

• attorney fee sanctions
• denial of motions and request
• orders requiring “changed circumstances” before considering requests