Whitney’s attorney asked that she be permitted regular contact, subject to protective conditions.

My lawyer asked for temporary primary care in my home, with a clear prohibition on contact with Dolores until further court action.

To my surprise, Whitney stood and addressed the judge herself.

“I should have listened to my daughter sooner,” she said.

“I want her safe.

I support her staying with her father for now.”

She sat down with tears in her eyes.

I didn’t feel victorious.