Question H

[Jonetta]

Gonzo wins the custody suit that Lori Phillips initiated, retaining custody of Alex. Did you think there was any possibility she’d regain custody despite her progress? Do you believe Gonzo’s “relationship” with the judge tipped the scales?

[Judy]

Given Lori's history and the short term she had been sober, I didn't think she could get full custody but I feared it might be shared custody which could have endangered Alex. The judge may have been influenced slightly because he knew Gonzo and had seen years of his good behavior, but I don't think it would have made him find in favor of Gonzo if Gonzo had not clearly been a reliable and loving father.

[Robin]

It turned out pretty much the way I thought it would. I don't think the judge showed any favoritism toward Gonzo; but he did have first-hand knowledge of Gonzo's character which would help him make a decision.

[Lauren]

Given the fact that Lori has only recently completed rehab, I'm not surprised the judge ruled in Gonzo's favor.

However, the fact that Lori seems to be making a real effort and the judge's conflict of interest may lead to a review of this case in the future.

[Sharon]

I didn't think that Lori would get custody. She needs to prove herself more. I am concerned about Gonzo's relationship with the judge. I believe most judges would rule the same, but it will give Lori a weapon in the future if she finds out.

[Anita]

Lori expected Gonzo to give her bundles of money and not care about his son. When Gonzo took Alez away from her she lost her meal ticket. She realized the only way she could cash in on Alex was to get clean and get custody.

If every judge had to recuse themselves due to a positive interaction with the police, there would be no judges left.

[Judy]

Anita wrote: "Lori expected Gonzo to give her bundles of money and not care about his son. When Gonzo took Alez away from her she lost her meal ticket. She realized the only way she could cash in on Alex was to ..."

I agree that most or at least many judges have had some kind of relationship or acquaintance with many police officers and could hardly be expected to recuse themselves from all of the cases they are in. Maybe the nature of their previous dealings was a little more personal and that made the difference.

[Sharon]

Anita wrote: "If every judge had to recuse themselves due to a positive interaction with the police, there would be no judges left."

I agree with Judy. It isn't the fact that there was interaction with the judge. It is Gonzo's involvement with the judge and his family that concerns me.