CHILDRENS EVIDENCE IN CUSTODY DISPUTES CASES IN THE SHARIA COURTS

In the process of trial in court, evidence disclosure is essential to uphold justice. Basically, every party is qualified to provide evidence before the judge decides. In the case of child custody disputes, besides the statements by the mother and the father, statements from the child involved can help the court in making the right decision. According to Islamic law, children who have attained the age of mumayyiz can be given the opportunity to choose. In addition, their views can also be taken as a support evidence to help the court make a decision. This article will analyse childrens rights to express their views, particularly in the determination of child custody disputes. The debate also looks at current legal provisions and practices in the Sharia Court. The analysis found that judges approach in accepting childrens evidence varies. There are still no specific procedures that can be used as a guide by the Sharia Court. The differences include the methods of interviewing or taking recorded statements, the procedures applied and the location where statements are recorded.