Celebrity case shows the messier side of child custody

Most residents here in Washington may have a hard time relating to the plights facing celebrities to our south in California. But when we learn that their problems are not that much different from our own, this sentiment often changes. Take the example of divorce. While you may not be able to relate to the problems associated with a high-asset divorce, you may be able to relate to other difficulties they face such as child custody issues.

If this is the case for you then you may be able to empathize with talk-show host Sherri Shepherd who is currently facing two child custody battles that are making it difficult for “The View” host to keep a smile on her face and her name out of the tabloids.

Some Spokane County may have already heard about the claims aimed against Shepherd which have been made by both her current husband and ex-husband. The first child custody case was raised by Shepherd’s ex-husband, who she divorced in 2011. According to Shepherd’s ex, because of her busy schedule she has been unable to provide the appropriate level of care to their 9-year-old son who has special needs. Shepherd’s ex is accusing her of neglect and is seeking full custody of the boy.

Although it will ultimately be up to a family law judge to determine if these allegations are true or not, an unfavorable decision against Shepherd could prove problematic in the second child custody case facing the television host.

Reports indicate that Shepherd’s estranged husband is seeking full custody of the couple’s unborn child, which is currently being carried by a surrogate mother. Although Shepherd’s current husband cannot claim neglect of their child, a judge may take the first child custody case into consideration when making a decision about custody of the child when it is born this summer. Unfortunately, if the rumors turn out to be true, this could mean that Shepherd may not have the same role in her children’s lives as she might hope.

Source: The Liberty Voice, “Sherri Shepherd Divorce Drama Gets Real,” Hal Banfield, May 18, 2014