The judge raised a hand for silence, and said, "In this case, where both parents have demonstrated moments of irresponsibility as well as deep concern for the child, and where neither side, in the court's view, appears to be an unequivocally better fit for sole custody, the court must consider the wishes of the child herself."
She paused, allowing the weight of her words to sink in. "Therefore, I am ordering that Miss Mila be brought into the courtroom. The court will question the child, in an age-appropriate and sensitive manner, regarding her wishes. Based on her opinion and the overall welfare of the child, the court will then pass its final judgment."
