I was not allowed to testify at my custody hearing

So I have been trying to get my children’s education (neglect imo) reviewed, and I had been trying to get to mediation, but my coparent (who homeschools and lives on my child support) has been very uncooperative. Recently, she filed a motion after follicle drug testing my child, claiming that I was the source and trying to take away my parenting time and stop mediation. This is the second time she has used drug allegations to avoid mediation.

I passed several UA’s prior to court and got letters stating I do not have enough hair to do a follicle test (I’m BALD).

Today the judge allowed my ex-wife, as well as an ex from two years ago, to testify against me and did not let me testify. They also did not ask my fiancée of one year to testify. Both women are white and I am Latino. I feel this is not right and unfortunately, I feel discriminated against. I have counsel, but I am just wondering if this is legal or normal or……?

Edit to add: my coparent rents their home on Airbnb and has primary custody (except one overnight and two business days) every week, so an Airbnb guest is my best guess as to where the drug exposure originated.

It sounds like you’re in a really tough situation. Typically, both parties should have the opportunity to present their case. It might be worth discussing this with your attorney.

I can’t believe you weren’t allowed to testify! That seems very unfair. Have you considered filing a complaint regarding the judge’s decision?

In some cases, judges have discretion on who can testify, but it should be based on relevance. If you feel discriminated against, you should definitely bring this up with your legal counsel.

Stay strong! Document everything and make sure your lawyer is aware of all the details, including any potential bias you perceive.