A Los Angeles judge has ruled that Halle Berry's 13-year-old son is permitted to testify in her custody and restraining-order dispute with ex-husband Olivier Martinez. The court returns Friday, Oct. 16.
Judge Shelley Kaufman ruled Wednesday that the teen can take the stand, but only on limited topics. TMZ reported that his testimony is limited to Martinez's request for a restraining order. Complex reported that he will testify in a closed courtroom, with only the parties, their lawyers and court personnel allowed to attend.
Martinez alleges Berry attacked their son during an argument at her home on Sept. 26. Berry denies hurting her son, and her attorney has called the claims meritless.
Berry had asked the court not to allow his testimony. She argued that he may have a personal interest in minimizing his own conduct and that his account could be shaped by long-running tension between his parents. Martinez's attorney countered that preventing him from testifying could discourage him from reporting problems in the future.
In a separate filing, Berry argued that a photo her son took after the incident does not prove she harmed him. Her daughter, Nahla Aubry, is also expected to testify.
A temporary restraining order granted Oct. 1 limits Berry's time with her son to court-ordered visitation until the hearing. Berry has asked the court to restore their 50/50 custody agreement.
None of the claims have been proven, and no court has found that Berry abused her son. The broader custody dispute remains unresolved.
At the center of this painful dispute is a 13-year-old boy. Many readers of faith will keep praying for wisdom for the judge and peace and healing for the whole family.
Related Articles:
- Halle Berry Denies Abuse Claims After Judge Grants Ex Olivier Martinez a Temporary Restraining Order
- What Did Halle Berry's Daughter Nahla Tell the Court About the Abuse Claims?
- What Happens Next in Halle Berry's Custody Fight After Daughter Nahla's Statement? What to Know Before the Oct. 16 Hearing
