Rare Jury Trial in Child Custody Case

About This Case

This case centered around the custody of a 2-year-old child who was removed from both parents due to substance abuse issues. The paternal grandparents engaged HKH to contest the maternal grandparents’ petition for full custody. During the temporary orders hearing, the judge designated both the paternal and maternal grandmothers as joint managing conservators. The court granted possession to the maternal grandmother under court order.
PracticeFamily Law
Time Frame2 years
LawyerAlyssa Herrington

The custody dispute ultimately proceeded to a jury trial, where the jury was tasked with determining the most suitable custodial arrangement for the child. The case highlighted the complexities involved in custody disputes and the effective representation provided by HKH Law Firm in advocating for the best interests of the child and their clients.

Challenge

The challenging part of this case was that custody disputes of this nature rarely proceed to a jury trial, making this case particularly challenging and unique. Jury trials in custody matters are uncommon because they require navigating complex family dynamics and legal standards, all while presenting a compelling case to a group of jurors who must unanimously agree on the best outcome for the child. The intricacies involved in presenting evidence and arguments in a custody case to a jury add an additional layer of complexity and demand meticulous preparation and exceptional advocacy skills.

Our Process

1. Framing the Timeline

One of the most significant aspects of this case was Alyssa having to distill two years of complex and emotionally charged circumstances into a concise six-hour presentation for the jury. This required meticulous preparation, strategic organization of evidence, and the ability to communicate critical details clearly and compellingly within a limited timeframe.

2. Jury Selection

Selecting an impartial and fair jury is crucial in custody disputes, particularly when sensitive family issues are involved. The process required careful consideration of potential jurors’ backgrounds, beliefs, and possible biases. Alyssa had to ensure that the selected jury could objectively evaluate the evidence and prioritize the child’s best interests without preconceived notions influencing their judgment.

Result

The jury did not grant the maternal grandmother’s request for full custody. Instead, they awarded sole managing conservatorship to the paternal grandparents and denied the maternal grandmother any court-ordered possession of the child.

This outcome underscores HKH Law Firm’s adept handling of the case, ensuring that the best interests of the child were prioritized and that the clients received a favorable and just resolution.

 

Given the sensitive nature of Family Law cases, we do not provide a downloadable copy of the case verdict files.

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