Opinion ID: 2629708
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Judge Tan Had Sufficient Evidence To Support a Change of Custody as Being in the Best Interests of the Children.

Text: Owen challenges the allegation of drug and alcohol abuse on the ground that there was insufficient evidence introduced at the June 12, 2000 custody trial to support the allegation and the subsequent change in custody. Owen points to two doctors' letters saying she was not abusing drugs or alcohol and claims that Fardig presented no evidence to the contrary. [9] While Judge Tan did find evidence of drug and alcohol abuse, it is clear from his oral findings that this was not the only factor relevant to his decision. Though the written findings are rather cursory, Judge Tan made extensive oral findings of fact to support his order changing custody from Owen to Fardig. [10] Judge Tan determined the best interests of the children by discussing each of the statutory factors listed in AS 25.24.150(c). [11] The first factor discussed by Judge Tan was the physical, emotional, mental, religious, and social needs of the child. He found that Bethany and Edith, the only children whose custody was in dispute, needed emotional support, a stable home, and unconditional love. For the next factor, the ability of the parents to meet the needs of their children, Judge Tan found that Fardig provided a better environment for the children, noting that Fardig's living situation seemed more stable, that he provided them with sufficient food and clothing, and that he was sending the children to see a therapist. Judge Tan worried that until Owen settled into a more permanent living arrangement, she would not be able to provide the support that the children needed. [12] Judge Tan next noted that because Bethany and Edith were only twelve and ten years old he did not feel it would be appropriate to take their preferences into consideration. [13] Judge Tan found that the factor of love and affection toward the parent was also inconclusive, since each child expressed love and affection for both parents. For the factor of length and stability of living arrangements, Judge Tan found that both of the children were happy living in Anchorage and had a good group of friends here. Judge Tan next found that each parent had a difficult time allowing the children to have an open relationship with the other parent. Judge Tan found that there was insufficient evidence to conclude that either parent had committed domestic violence. Judge Tan next addressed the drug use by each parent. Judge Tan focused on the fact that Fardig had been in an eight-month substance abuse program and had attended meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous as evidence that he was getting his drug problem under control. Judge Tan chastised Owen for not making similar efforts. Judge Tan considered the two doctors' letters that Owen submitted to be unsworn statements because neither doctor testified at trial. Judge Tan further noted that the letters were unclear about what medications Owen was taking and what testing and drug assessment she was undergoing. [14] Consequently, the trial court found little value in the letters. Further support for Judge Tan's conclusion can be found in the trial testimony of Janice Bernzott, a therapist who had previously counseled Andrew Fardig and was continuing to counsel Bethany and Edith Fardig at the time of the trial. Bernzott, who has a masters degree in clinical psychology and a nursing degree, testified, based on comments that the children made to her, that she believed that Owen was currently using drugs. [15] Earle Fardig testified that Owen refused to enter the same treatment program that Fardig had earlier undergone for addiction to prescription drugs; furthermore, Fardig testified that Owen even denied that she had a problem. Andrew Fardig, their son, testified that his mother was very manipulative and frequently seemed to be on something. Jennifer Fardig, their daughter, testified that her father did not smoke marijuana or abuse alcohol and that he would not let the children smoke cigarettes. In addition, Jennifer related a conversation in which her mother discussed being beaten by her husband, Bob Owen, and using drugs with him. This testimony further supports Judge Tan's finding of possible drug use by Kristine Owen. Finally, Judge Tan concluded it was in the best interests of Bethany and Edith to be kept together and with their other siblings because of the emotional support that the siblings provided for each other. In sum, the evidence does not support Owen's claim that Judge Tan's findings on the statutory factors involved in determining the best interests of the children were clearly erroneous.