Judge Judy Season 17 Episode 104 Custody Fight Payback | Enlisted Woman & Mad Dad

In season 17, episode 104 of Judge Judy, two parents are fighting over custody of their two-year-old daughter. The mother, an enlisted woman, accuses the father of being erratic and violent, while he claims that she is neglectful and unfit to care for their child. They both present evidence and witnesses to support their claims, and Judge Judy must determine which parent is telling the truth and what kind of custody arrangement is in the best interests of the child.

As the episode begins, the mother explains that she has served in the military for six years and has been a single parent for the past two years. She says that the father has a history of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as a criminal record, and that she has concerns about his ability to provide a safe and stable home for their daughter. She presents photos of the father passed out drunk on the couch and testimony from neighbors who have witnessed his violent outbursts.

The father counters that the mother is frequently absent due to her military duties and hasn't been involved enough in the child's life. He says that he has made positive changes in his life and now has a steady job and a supportive girlfriend. He also accuses the mother of being emotionally abusive and manipulative, and says that he has evidence of her neglecting the child's basic needs.

Judge Judy listens carefully to both sides and asks pointed questions to clarify their claims. She notes that both parents have made mistakes in the past, but that her job is to decide what is best for the child going forward. She expresses concern about the child's exposure to the father's drinking and the mother's long periods of separation, but also acknowledges that the father seems to have made an effort to turn his life around.

The episode takes a dramatic turn when the father's girlfriend, who has been sitting in the gallery, suddenly bursts into tears and accuses the mother of harassing her and spreading lies about her online. Judge Judy admonishes her for disrupting the proceedings and reminds all parties that they must behave respectfully in her courtroom.

In the end, Judge Judy decides to award joint legal custody to both parents, but grants the mother primary physical custody with generous visitation rights for the father. She orders them both to attend counseling and parenting classes to improve their communication and co-parenting skills, and warns them that any violation of the custody agreement will result in severe consequences. The episode ends with both parents expressing relief that the case is over, but also a sense of apprehension about whether they will be able to work together for the sake of their daughter in the future.

Overall, this episode of Judge Judy highlights the complexities and emotional toll of custody battles, as well as the importance of finding a fair and practical solution for the child involved. It also underscores the power and authority of Judge Judy herself, who is able to maintain order and civility in a highly charged environment.