In Re Custody of Scott

Respondent, Judy Scott, appeals from a trial court order which modified an earlier custody award by changing custody of the parties’ minor child from her to petitioner, John Scott.

On September 13, 1970, the parties were married and in 1972 their daughter, Christine, was born. In 1976 respondent was hospitalized for 105 days and was diagnosed as having paranoid schizophrenia.

On March 22, 1977, the parties were divorced and custody of Christine was awarded to respondent. In August 1977, however, respondent suffered another psychotic episode in a restaurant while on a trip with Christine. The…