On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Monday, September 11, 2017.
Illinois music fans may be interested in learning that the legendary singer Paul Anka has been awarded sole legal and physical custody of his 11-year-old son. His ex-wife, a 46-year-old Swedish model, has filed an appeal.
According to news sources, the family court judge in California awarded Anka legal and physical custody as well as the discretion of whether or not to allow his ex-wife visitation time after attempts at reunification therapy reportedly failed. His ex-wife, Anna Anka, alleges that he has engaged in a campaign of parental alienation against her.
Anna Anka previously lost custody of her 14-year-old daughter after accusations that she burned her daughter in her steam shower. Anka states that she was never convicted of burning her daughter and that the allegations against her are false. Her 11-year-old son has lived with his father for the past two years and has indicated that he strongly dislikes his mother. The judge found that there was no evidence that either of the boy’s parents had ever abused him but still issued its ruling in favor of Paul and against her.
In custody disputes, courts consider what is in the best interests of the children rather than in what is in the best interests of the parents. When issues such as parental alienation and alleged abuse are involved, the courts may rely on evidence from professionals in reaching their decisions. Lawyers may help their clients to litigate these types of cases, presenting evidence that places their clients in the most favorable light.
Source: New York Daily News, “Paul Anka beauty queen ex-wife appealing child custody decision barring her from son“, Nancy Dillon, Aug. 31, 2017
