Celebrities can have family problems, too. Alec Baldwin is stepping away from the acting world to talk about his already public family problems as a special guest at the Kickoff to the Family Law Institute and Legal Aid Foundation of Colorado fundraiser Aug. 11, 2011.
According to the event organizer, Baldwin has great respect for family law lawyers, but he is expected to advocate for systematic change after he struggled with his ex-wife Kim Basinger for custody over his daughter. Baldwin’s experience, as a father litigating family law issues, was documented in his book, “A Promise to Ourselves: A Journey Through Fatherhood and Divorce.”
Baldwin’s previous book tour ended in 2008 and this will be Baldwin’s first address to a bar association. The event organizer is well-aware that the star’s presence at a legal function may raise some eyebrows. Baldwin, however, reportedly hopes to challenge family law lawyers to change the system for the better, in line with the Institute’s theme of “Say You Want a Revolution.”
In his book, Baldwin writes that he felt his concerns as a father were not addressed during his very public custody battle. He has said that family law court is cold and that “No one can hear your cries and complaints, and it is not over until they say it is over.” According to Baldwin’s previous statements, this frustration mounted until he finally snapped and left a nasty voicemail for his then 11-year-old daughter, which later came under fire by the media.
Despite Baldwin’s at times negative outlook on the family law system, he has been eager to work with the Family Law Section of the Colorado Bar Association. Baldwin personally called the event organizer while he was on the set of his television show to ensure he was able to attend the Institute.
Baldwin’s involvement was a conscious attempt by the event organizer to lend a celebrity voice to the typical, nitty-gritty aspects of family law litigation, such as personal attacks on the opposing party. Baldwin’s message is expected to be more than just a complaint about the family law system, but to also give personal suggestions and commentary on where it can improve.
Source: The Docket, “A Seat at the Bar: Alec Baldwin Kicks Off Family Law Institute,” Sara Crocker, July 2011