Michelle’s attorney rises first, smoothing the lapels of her dark suit jacket. “Kelly Powell, on behalf of the petitioner, Michelle Adams-Porter.” Her voice is a steady current beneath the courtroom’s hush.

Joyce stands in turn, hands resting lightly atop her organized files. “Joyce Wischnia for the respondent, Bette Porter.” She inclines her head to the judge, posture relaxed yet resolute.

The judge nods once, finely controlled. “Ms. Powell, you may proceed.”

Kelly clears her throat, the sound sharp in the hush. “Your Honor, my client seeks a modification of the existing custody agreement based on concerns regarding the emotional welfare of the minor child. Specifically, the presence of Ms. Porter’s romantic partner—”

Joyce stands with a fluid grace. “Objection, Your Honor. Vague and conclusory. Counsel has yet to allege a single fact that would meet the statutory threshold under Family Code Section 3011.” Her voice is cool, detached, each word clipped.

The judge raises a hand to pause the exchange. She turns her gaze to Kelly.

Undeterred, Kelly presses on. “My client contends that the respondent’s partner presents instability. There is a documented history of relocation, unexplained absences—”

Joyce interrupts with a soft scoff. “Your Honor, one relocation that occurred years before my client and her partner reconciled does not constitute emotional harm, nor does it rise to the level of detriment required to restrict custodial rights. There is no evidence of abuse, neglect, or endangerment. None.” She lets the silence hang, a taut strand of sound in the hushed room. Then she leans forward, voice low but unmistakable: “And to be clear, knowingly advancing unsupported allegations in a custody matter exposes the petitioner to sanctions under Code of Civil Procedure Section 128.7.”

Kelly rolls her eyes but holds her ground, the corners of her mouth tightening. “Do I detect a threat somewhere in that statement?”

Joyce shrugs. “We just want the court to understand that we are very aware of that standard.”

Michelle shifts in her seat.

“Yeah, I’m sure that was your only intent…” Kelly says sarcastically.

Joyce glances at Kelly. “It’s called putting things on the record, unlike you and your client who strutted into court emboldened with zero evidence…”