Helbling v. Helbling

MESCHKE, Justice.

Deborah Helbling appealed from a divorce decree placing primary custody of her daughter, Deidre, with Dale Helbling, Deidre’s father. We reverse and remand for reconsideration of custody because the trial court failed to act on extensive evidence of domestic violence.

Deborah and Dale were married in February 1984, and Deidre, their only child, was born December 8, 1986. Deborah filed for divorce in November 1992. Her complaint alleged that Dale “frequently physically and mentally abused” her, and she sought custody of Deidre. Dale counterclaimed for a divorce too, denied the…