Watch Custody

"Custody" is a drama television show that aired on Lifetime from March 4 to 5, 2018. The two-part mini-series explores the lives of three women caught in the complex and heart-wrenching world of child custody battles. The story revolves around the character of Sara Diaz (played by Catalina Sandino Moreno), a single mother who is fighting for custody of her three children after a violent incident involving her ex-husband Jason (played by Brett DelBuono) drives her to flee with the kids to New York City. Sara is represented by Ally Fisher (played by Hayden Panettiere), a driven and empathetic lawyer who is juggling her own personal and professional life while striving to win her client's case.

Meanwhile, the children's court-appointed advocate, Nicole Devlin (played by Viola Davis), is tasked with investigating the situation and making a recommendation to the judge about what would be in the best interests of the children. Nicole has her own history with custody battles, having lost her own child to her ex-husband years ago.

As the story unfolds, we see how the lives of these three women are intertwined and how they all struggle with their own demons while fighting for what they believe is right. The show offers a nuanced look at the complexities of custody battles and the emotional toll they take on everyone involved.

One of the strengths of the show is the three strong female leads. Each offers a unique perspective on the situation and brings a depth and complexity to their roles. Catalina Sandino Moreno delivers a standout performance as Sara, conveying both the fierce determination and the vulnerability that comes with fighting for your children's futures. Hayden Panettiere is also excellent as Ally, balancing the demands of her job with her personal life and her own struggles with motherhood. And of course, Viola Davis brings her usual gravitas and depth to the role of Nicole, infusing the character with both an unyielding sense of duty and a deep well of empathy.

The show also features a strong supporting cast, including Tony Shalhoub as Judge Martha Schulman, Dan Fogler as Sara's estranged brother, and Ellen Burstyn as Sara's mother. Each actor brings a unique energy and perspective to the story, further fleshing out the show's world and adding to the complexity of the characters' relationships.

Another notable aspect of "Custody" is its focus on the legal process of custody battles. The show takes care to accurately depict the different steps involved in such cases, from the initial investigation through to the final verdict. It also highlights the different strategies and tactics used by lawyers on both sides of the case, demonstrating how the system can be manipulated and abused by those with the means to do so. This attention to detail adds a level of authenticity to the show that is often lacking in other depictions of the legal system on television.

Overall, "Custody" is a thought-provoking and emotional drama that provides a nuanced look at the complexities of child custody battles. Its strong performances, attention to detail, and exploration of the different perspectives involved in such cases make it a compelling and deeply engaging watch.