In California custody decisions are basically unappeallable because of "trial court discretion," "continuing jurisdiction" and "changed circumstances" by the time the appeal is heard. It basically means that unlike in civil, family law judges can do what they want even if it's basically illegal, and they know this and do it. It also makes a hand full of judges the parents of every kid whose mom or dad petitioned the court.

Custody should at least go to a civil jury imo. Make it 9 of 12 for a decision.