what happens if the judge makes the wrong decision in a child custody case?

Answer 1

Child custody cases are NEVER final. You can always go back to court and ask for more support or less, more visitations, change of custody. Don't panic, just become very familiar with filing cases.

Answer 2

The "wrong" decision is the one that leaves the children worse off than another decision would have. You've already made the "wrong" decision by choosing to get divorced, unless staying together would have made them worse off (say, when abuse is involved.)

So if "wrong" to you means "not the way I wanted it", then let it go -- but if "wrong" means you have a reasonable expectation that the children will be worse off (such as custody being granted to a known abuser), keep fighting for it. In abuse cases, don't stop fighting for it, either, because a future judge might view a long period of you not trying to get custody as an indication that the danger is not significant (after all, if they were in danger, why didn't you go back to court right away?)

Mind you, if the difference is slight (like "if he gets custody, they won't go to a school that's as good") or subjective (like "if he gets custody, they'll suffer because they won't have a mother around") then you should let it go as well, because any (supposed) benefit that might result from such a slight difference will be more than offset by the additional suffering the kids will go through because the family is back in court once again.

Finally, remember that once you've made the decision to get a divorce (in the absence of abuse, that is) you've already done far more harm to the children than the custody decision will. Focus on improving their lives by providing what little stability and foundation you can -- accept the judge's decision, make arrangements to maximize your time with them, and even in divorce, continue to present a united front against their attempts to undermine your authority and play you against your ex for their personal gain.

By maintaining set boundaries, presenting a united front, and most of all accepting the changed situation and moving on with your lives, your kids will suffer less than a drawn-out series of court decisions would make them suffer.

Answer 3

What do you mean by the "wrong" decision? There is no right decision in a child custody case. Both parents should have an equal hand in raising the children, but the judge has to choose between them. Any decision is the wrong decision. It's like the classic choice: "Who do you want me to kill, your wife, or your mother?"

Answer 4

Dad has putative rights, judge grants DHS to transfer child out of state?

Answer 5

You go back and try agian. Good luck

Answer 6

Get a new lawyer and appeal it!

Answer 7

well I guess your screwed

Answer 8

You can appeal...or you are S.O.L.