All language subtitles for Custody.2016.WEB-DL.x264-FGT

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Bye.

- You're home early.
- Yeah.

And aren't you supposed to be
doing some homework?

Yes, I did some.

Mm-hmm.

- And the kids?
- Tia went to bed early

and David's down
at his friend Anthony's.

- What?
- He went downstairs.

Oh, Sheila, I told you

not to let the kids
out of this house.

He said you said
it was all right.

- No!
- I'm sorry.

- What do you want?
- Where is David?

David ain't in here.

Don't talk crap to me, Anthony.

I told you, he ain't here.

Hey, get off me.
You ain't my momma.

Where is your momma?

Fine, I'm calling the cops.

Oh, whoa, whoa,
whoa, hey, hey, hey, hey.

Cool. Cool.

Yo, David.

Hey, come on, son.
Come on.

Let's go, go home to mommy, son.

- Go to mommy.
- You gotta be kidding me.

- You got to be kidding.
- And don't come back, neither.

How many times
I got to tell you, David?

I just went down there
for a few minutes, chill.

- Chill?
- Don't you be smacking me.

- I'm not a little kid.
- You are a kid.

- Have you been drinking?
- Keep your hands off me.

Because I smelled it
in the party there.

Don't run from me, David.

Let go of me.

Oh!

Oh, my, god, David.

Oh, my, god, David.
Are you okay?

- Are you okay, David?
- I'm fine.

Sheila, shut the door and go.

Tia, get mommy a wet cloth
and a band-aid box. Run.

Does it hurt?

It just... it just stings
a little.

Thank you, baby.

Oh, my, god.

Oh, it's just a small cut.

It missed your eye
by a few inches.

I'm fine.

Listen to me, David.

That Anthony and his friends
are poison.

Next time, I'm gonna call
the cops on his mother.

- No. No.
- Yes. You had no business

- being down there, baby.
- No, mommy. No.

Mom, please.

David going to the hospital?

No.

You see? You see?
It stopped.

The bleeding has stopped.

Don't touch it, please.
Don't touch.

- Good. Okay.
- You go back to bed now, okay?

- I'll be there soon. Go.
- Love you, mom.

I love you too.

I'm gonna put a band-aid
and everything's gonna be okay.

Oh, David.

I love you.

Welcome home to our empty nest.

Don't remind me.

I'm calling.
Pick your poison.

Moo Shu, please.

Moo Shu for two.

Tuesday, 2:51 pm.

Hey, sis.

I hope everything went smoothly

getting Elliot off to college.

I wanted you to know
that dad called.

He fell and hurt his shoulder
this afternoon,

so I'm taking him
to the doctor in the morning.

- Call me.
- Ugh. Just shoot me.

And everyone
is asking themselves,

how did this happen?

How did five-year-old,

Sofia Martinez starved to death

in her very own home?

Apparently, all of the doors
in the apartment were locked.

Neighbors say
the little girl's mother

had lost custody of the child
over a year ago

but the girl had been reunited

with her recently
after she was released

from a drug
rehabilitation program.

Police are now searching
for the mother.

Oh, I am beyond beat.
Aren't you exhausted?

To put it mildly
but I'm also wired.

Well, I've got that
early flight to Boston.

That deal still isn't done yet?

Hopefully tomorrow.

Listen, would you mind reading
in the other room?

Oh, no, not at all.

- Kiss me.
- Oh.

Martha?

- Honey?
- Oh, gosh.

I can't believe
I fell asleep in here, Jesus.

Listen, I got to get
to the airport.

Oh, what time is it?

7:00. I wasn't sure
when you were seeing your dad.

No, no, no.
I'm glad you woke me up.

You okay?

Elliot is not gone
for good, honey.

I know, and I hate it
when you call me honey.

I've always called you honey.

I know and I've always hated it.

Okay.

Look, I know it's weird
with him gone.

It's not weird.
It's just sad.

I think it would be sad

if he didn't wanna go
to college.

Jason, let me process this
in my own way.

You can't put words
to what I'm feeling right now.

Okay.

I'll see you tonight.

Have a good trip.

I wanna make it
to Dante's soccer game today

but Manny's got
a parent-teacher conference.

Oh, I didn't know
that was today.

- What time is the soccer game?
- 4:00.

I'll never make that.
I'm in the field today.

Yeah, he knows.

This is one of my cases.

Jesus...

Why didn't you say something?

I had no idea it was gonna get
this kind of attention.

- What happened?
- Oh, believe me.

Nothing you wanna hear about
first thing in the morning.

Don't worry about it.

I gotta go and you better
get your ass moving too.

- Ow!

Do you think Manny could ever

pick up one of his toys?

All right.
Let's quiet down.

Take out your journals.

I want you to begin today
by doing an entry

about our trip
to the museum tomorrow.

I wanna know specifically
which exhibit

that you are going...

David, wake up.

Did you forget to sleep
last night?

Take out your journal
and listen up.

And how did you get
these marks on your arms?

I don't know.

It seems very odd, David,
that you wouldn't know

how you got these bruises.

I fell.
Can I go back to class now?

I'd like you to stay here
a while and rest.

Okay?

Go on.

Get him to a doctor.

I'm gonna call ACS.

Well, hello.

You must be Tia.

You come and sit
right over here.

Thank you.

Would you like some juice?

Yes, please.

Good.

Did I do something wrong?

No, sweetheart.

You didn't do anything wrong.

Mr. Sanjuro here just wants
to ask you a few questions.

Hi, Tia.

- Hi.
- How are you?

I'm very pleased to meet you.

I'm gonna ask you
a few questions, okay?

Um, what's your favorite color?

- Purple.
- Purple?

And what's your favorite
kind of juice?

Apple.

Mm-hmm.

Did something happen
at your house last night?

Come dancing with me tonight.

Who goes dancing
on a week night?

Mr. Christian.

Wow.

You look really handsome today.

Jackie, you're so full of shit.

Sara, there's someone here
to see you.

- Me?
- It's something about

your kid. Come on.

What, you never
had a fight with your kids?

- Did you hit David?
- My son was acting up.

Yeah, maybe I smacked him
on the bottom

but no, I did not hit him.

Did you grab him or shake him?

Oh, my, god.
I'm getting mad. You come here.

You embarrass me at work
because I disciplined my boy?

How did David
got the cut on his face?

He fell!

He tripped
and hit the coffee table.

Oh, my, god, do you think
I did that to him?

I will never do that
to one of my kids.

Your son is in the hospital now.

He... he's in...
He's in the hospital now?

What hospital? Why?
Why is he in the hospital?

- It's okay. Calm down.
- Don't tell me to calm down!

Where is my boy?

Hey.

I'm here now.

I think we got a problem.

I can't get a take
on the mother.

She gets an okay report at work.

Her daughter was vague
about what happened.

The neighbor had
some scary stories

but he stunk of drink.

But she does show signs
of a nasty temper.

I'm just afraid she might

blame the boy
for all of this now.

My gut says we might be wise

to place the kids
with a relative overnight

until we can do
a complete background check

and evaluate the situation.

Better safe than sorry.

- Lord, you scared me.
- Where is David?

I'm sorry, let me call you back.

I don't speak Spanish.
And you are?

I'm Sara Diaz, David's mother.

- Sit down, Sara.
- No, I don't wanna sit down.

- Where is he?
- Settle down, Sara.

I'm on your side.

Here,

read this.

There'll be one of these
at your apartment.

They took Tia too?

What the hell?
I didn't do nothing.

- Go down to the courthouse.
- They must be so scared.

Go down there.
They'll help you.

Hey, what's going on,
where have you been?

- Who took your kids away?
- I don't know. The court.

Some mix-up about
a cut in David's eye.

Ay, Ni�a.

Did you get your problem
sorted out, Sara?

Sofia Martinez's mother

was found last night

at a crack den in the Bronx

and immediately
taken into police custody.

Sources tell New York one
that Martinez

has told authorities

she believed the girl's
biological father

was caring for Sofia...

- Hey!
- Oh, Martha!

Oh. It's been ages. Hey.

What brings you
to this part of town?

I thought park Avenue lawyers

didn't have to come south
of 42nd street?

Oh, I know it's hard
for you to believe,

but I actually have to be
in courtroom today.

Oh, well,
that will keep you humble.

- I miss you.
- Huh.

We have to get together
with our spouses for dinner.

- It's been way too long.
- Yeah, I would love that.

- Have you been okay?
- Yeah, things are fantastic.

- Okay.
- I'm gonna email you.

- Sure. Okay. Yup.
- Bye.

Next, let's go.

Excuse me.

How are you?

- Sorry I'm late.
- So am I, you're on.

- What?
- Ruthie's sick.

She's gonna be out
for a couple of days

and I have two people
on vacation.

You'll do intake.
The files are on your desk.

I've never done that before.

You passed the bar.
You've watched Ruthie.

You gotta start some time.

Good morning.

Did I miss the kaffeeklatsch?

We're talking about
the Martinez case.

It was mine.

Oh, I didn't know.
I was away yesterday.

I'm so sorry.

I released the child back
to the mother three months ago.

She was clean.

I'm sure you did the right thing

- in the case, mark.
- That's what we always say.

Well, we always say it
because it's true.

It's ACS's job to monitor.

Yeah.

I better get in there.

Good morning.

Good morning.

Let the games begin.

Sara Diaz?

Hi, Alexandra Fisher,

I'm gonna be your lawyer today.

Okay. Let's see
what we have.

So, your children were removed

- from your home due to...
- Sara Diaz.

You got to be kidding me.

Case #1 on the calendar

in the matter of Sara Diaz.

Raise your right hand.

Do you swear to tell the truth?

Yes.

Sit.

Good morning, Ms. Diaz.

Good morning.

And this is your attorney?

- Yes, your honor.
- And you would be?

Alexandra Fisher, your honor.

I'm from the 18b office.

A fresh new face
in the halls of justice.

Lovely to meet you.

You could sit.

Now, Ms. Diaz,
you are aware of the claims

being brought against you today?

Yes and I'm not guilty
of anything, ma'am.

This is not a trial,
Ms. Diaz.

This is just an intake procedure

to put forth a claim

from the agency
for children services.

I didn't do anything to my boy.

You'll be able to tell
your side of the story

in a standard
court procedure, okay?

I just want them home today.

I certainly understand that
and we will do what we can

to make that happen.

Mr. Sanjuro,
where are the children now?

They're in the custody
of ACS, your honor.

All right. Ms. Diaz,
who is the children's father?

He's dead.

I'm sorry.

So, you have no relatives
to place the children with?

No, well, my mother
doesn't live in this country.

Um, I don't understand
why my children

were taken from me.

Well, there have been
allegations

- of you striking your son.
- Well, I didn't.

My children have been kidnapped.

They must be very scared.

- I want them home today.
- Hold on, Ms. Diaz.

The court takes these charges
very seriously.

Ms. Fisher,
you might wanna help

your client out here?

Yes, I'm sorry, your honor.

I was assigned to Ms. Diaz

seconds before
we were called in,

- so I haven't had a chance...
- I understand.

Ms. Diaz, have you seen
your children

- since they were taken?
- No.

- Mr. Denholz, why is that?

Your honor, by the time
the school reported.

David's condition,
it was too late

to file a petition.

So, they kept him overnight
for observation

in Atlantic hospital.

- He suffered a concussion...
- A concussion?

Nobody... nobody told me
he had a concussion.

It seems to be minor.

- Where's the boy now?
- Now, now he's back in school

- with his sister.
- Back in school

with a concussion, is that wise?

- If I may, your honor?
- Yes.

The doctor felt that
if David woke up

and had no complaints,
he'd be fine to attend school.

Has the agency had any
of other previous contact

with the respondent?

No, your honor,
but ACS does not recommend

the return of children
without a formal hearing.

And Ms. Diaz,

you have the right
to ask for a hearing

to determine whether you pose

an imminent risk
to your children.

Would you like
to request that now?

- I guess.
- No, you can't guess.

- We need a yes or a no.
- Yes.

Are you saying
I can't get them back now?

I'm sorry, Ms. Diaz.

I will arrange for you to see

your children today
and every day thereafter

- until the hearing, all right?
- No, no, no, no,

- it's not all right.
- Ms. Diaz,

the court does not like
to take children away

from their parents.

Now, you could spend
as much time

with them as you like.

Please note that,
Mr. Denholz.

Your honor, if I may?

The agency would also like
to request

that these visitations
be monitored.

The children are 11 and eight,

Ms. Diaz has
had no prior record

with your agency.

Your honor, I think that
it would be prudent

to exercise caution here.

Do you have a job,
Ms. Diaz?

- Ms. Diaz?
- Yes, ma'am.

All right, let's get
our books out, shall we?

What's good for you,
morning or afternoons,

Ms. Diaz?

Well, I don't know.
It doesn't matter.

I'll have to take time off.

All right.

What about 3:00 P.M.
on Monday?

I have an opening in my docket.

That way, I can hear the case

and that should speed
things along.

Uh, your honor,

we'd ask that the respondent

- submit to a drug test today.
- Why?

Uh, we make this request,
your honor,

in the interest of time
with the weekend

- coming up...
- All right.

Ms. Diaz,
you're being asked to submit

to a standard test for drugs.

Now, this is something
you do not have to do,

but your attorney
might recommend it.

Also, in family court,
your children

get their own
legal representatives,

so someone from legal aid
will meet with David and Tia.

Now, if there's nothing else,
I'll see you on Monday.

Clear the court.

How was the college, judge?

- Joe, it was very white.

Did Elliot like his roommate?

He seemed like it, you know.

He's from California.

His mother dresses
like Malibu Barbie.

Wearing spandex at 50.

All right,
we'll get to the next case.

Please come in.
Have a seat.

I'm fine.

Okay.

We'll only have
a few minutes now,

so we should plan again
together either later today

or first thing Monday morning.

You're my lawyer?

- Yes.
- You don't look old enough

to be a lawyer.

Is that why
I don't have to pay you?

Uh, no.

I'm actually a graduate
of Yale law.

Do you think this is funny?

I don't care
where you went to school.

I just want my kids back.

Yes, I understand.

Now, with this issue
of the drug test.

- What is that?
- Just a urine sample,

make sure you're not
on heroin or crack.

My god, no.
I'm not an addict, of course.

Okay. Then I would just take
the test.

- Okay.
- Now, have you ever been

- convicted of a crime?
- No.

- They need you back inside.
- I have to run.

Uh, well, when do I see my kids?

If you can just hang around
for a little bit,

I can have that information
to you by lunch.

It's nice working with you.

What's your name?

Oh, sorry.
Alexandra Fisher.

Call me ally.

And do you know my name?

Ms. Diaz, Sara.

I'll see you later, Sara.

Did you talk to them?

Yeah.

- Why?
- Because I had to.

- What did you say?
- I didn't say nothing.

Well, you had to have
said something.

Stop blaming, David.

You're the reason we're here!

Tia,

David?

- Mommy.
- Hi, baby.

- Momma.
- Hi, baby.

Hi, hey, you don't have
a hug for me?

Come on!

Hi, my big boy.

- Mommy, look at the toys.
- Let's see them.

They're so beautiful.

Hey, Davey,

how are you feeling?

- Does it hurt?
- I'm okay.

They said I have a concussion,

but I'm fine.

Why didn't you say something?

Why did you go to school
feeling sick?

I felt okay when I woke up.

- Did I do something wrong?
- No, no.

It's just...

It's just
a big misunderstanding.

Have you guys been eating?

Well, they have chicken fingers.

Those are your favorite.

Yeah, I guess.

Have you been eating, Davey?

You eat something
on every meal, you hear me?

Yes.

Can we go home now?

No, Tia.

They say you have to stay here
a couple more nights.

- I don't want to.
- I know.

I don't want it either.

I'll get everything fixed
on Monday

and then you'll be home
like always.

- But I wanna come home now.
- No, Tia, no tears.

We gotta be strong here
because there's nothing

we can do about it.

You'll be good.

Davey, you stay with her.

You take care of your sister.

They've been asking me
all kinds of questions.

- I bet they have.
- What should I say?

Baby, tell them the truth.

Tell them you wanna
come home with me.

Mrs. Diaz,

we need to get Tia and David

to dinner now.

I just got here.

It's time.

Put away your toys.

Boys, follow me.

We'll meet you at the door.

Some kind of adventure
you're having, huh?

I don't want an adventure.

So, is Elliot loving school?

Oh, well, so far so good.

We'll see how it goes.

I bet you cried your eyes out

with your only one
going off to college.

- Well...
- She did.

You did.

I was a wreck
when Sally went off.

But you still have
Caroline at home.

Mm-mm.

No, she's at Milton this year.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Boy, we have been out of touch.

Well, here's to an empty nest.

- Hmm, yes.
- Cheers.

Your cosmo matches
your beautiful dress.

Oh, I guess.

- Drew.
- Hmm?

Catch us up on corporate law.

You don't miss working
in corporate law,

do you, Martha?

No, but I do miss the money.

That is so funny.
So do I.

What a coincidence.

You know what,
I think we should order

for the table because
if I drink too many

of these cosmos,
I'm gonna be on the floor.

I love the lamb here.

- Lamp?
- Lamb!

She's having a lamp?

Lamb.

- They can't blame you, Luis.
- That's how it works.

But you weren't
the only one on the case.

But I was in charge.

More than one head's gonna roll.

There's plenty of blame
to go around.

Well, the mother,
what was she like?

I can't remember very much.

You know how many case
loads I'm juggling?

I'm sorry.

I mean, the apartment
was in order.

The kitchen was full of food.

Dante, please

stop biting or we're going home.

Luis.

Luis,

we wanna go get ice cream now.

Okay. I... I really have
to get back to work.

Jesus, Luis, we just got here.

I know.

We never get to see you anymore.

I have to prepare
for the hearing

and they're gonna grill me.

I'm sorry.

- It's gonna be all right.
- Okay.

Come here, bye.

Listen to mama, okay?

Be good, behave.

Hi.

Good to see you.

Aunt ally!

Emily!

Oh, it's so good to see you.

Come see what I made.

- Hey, sis.
- Come on.

- What'd you make?
- I made the place cards.

You did not?
Those are so cool.

- There you are, darling.
- Hi, mom.

You're a little
casually dressed.

- It's Sunday brunch.
- You know grandma.

She still thinks she's in
an Edith Wharton novel.

I know she does.

Can I go up to the den?

Of course you can, sweetheart.

Just make sure you go
with your daddy, okay?

Come on, we got to be quick.

Brunch is gonna be ready soon.

Your grandmother is really happy

you're able to join us.

Sweetie, you okay?
You look a little tired.

I'm fine.

Just had a long night.

Maybe it'll help you
remember the names of them.

Ah, there's my girl.

- Hello, al.
- Hi, dad.

Happy birthday, gram.

Oh, thank you, dear.

I'm so glad you could make it.

You know, our birthday's
only good for one thing

at this stage.

It's a great excuse
to bring everyone together.

- There are the Roths.
- Oh, wonderful.

Where's Adele?

Go take their coats,
will you, dear?

Of course, mother.

I do everything
you ever tell me to do.

No, you don't, but you should.

Come, sit.

Talk to me.

I never get to see you.

Well, you're seeing me now.

Well, we could have a meal
together, you know.

Just the two of us.

Okay.

I've been really busy.

Mm-hmm.

I'm glad that you
didn't go into the firm

right from school.

I thought that's what you
would've wanted me to do, no?

No, I like the fact

that you're doing something good

for the world.

Thank you.

It's been a challenge for sure.

Hmm, I'll bet.

They're probably
paying you a song.

That's what trust funds
are for, I suppose.

Aren't you glad your grandfather

thought of that?

Yeah.

Thank you for coming today.

It means a lot.

Of course.

Whatever happened
to that young man

- you were dating?
- Oh, I'm not sure.

That was over at the end
of law school, so.

Oh.

Are you seeing anyone now?

No. Not at the moment.

Well, don't let
too much time pass.

I'm 25.

Of course.

Just don't be lonely,
that's all I meant.

You know what,
if I get too lonely,

there's always the bar
at the end of my block.

Hmm.

I think you want me
to change the subject,

so I shall.

Well, looks like
everybody's here.

Would you go round up
the folks into the den?

- Yes, gladly.
- Okay.

But the giraffe was going,

"oh, no, I thought
the elephants were,

but the elephants
don't socialize.

- I think"...
- It's time to eat.

Not the elephants.

But I wanna finish the story.

Go downstairs, Emily.

- But we're on the middle...
- Come on. Come on.

But we're in the middle
of the story.

It's time to eat, I don't care,

don't argue with me, go.

Mommy!

I don't wanna see you alone
with that child again,

- you got me?
- I resent your implication.

You are in no position
to resent anything.

You have an active imagination.

We know this has nothing to do

with my imagination.

Is everything all right?

I don't know, is everything
all right, uncle frank?

Everything's fine.

What was that all about?

Nothing, just go
downstairs and eat.

I just need a minute, okay?

Elaine Dunbar
of the legal aid society

for David and Tia Diaz.

Luis Sanjuro for the agency
for children services.

Keith Denholz
for the corporation council.

Alexandra Fisher
for the respondent.

Ms. Diaz, would you please

state your name for the record?

I'm Sara Diaz,

for my kids.

Raise your right hand.

Do you swear to tell the truth?

- Yes.
- Thank you.

Now you may sit.

We are here today to determine

whether Ms. Diaz
poses an imminent risk

to her children,
first Ms. Diaz,

have you seen your children?

Yes, ma'am, every day.

Good.

And how did you find
the children?

David seems to be on the mend,

the children were very pleased
to see their mother

and they're very anxious
to be returned home.

Very good.
Mr. Sanjuro?

Yes, the children
do want to return home

but your honor,
I would like to draw

your attention
to this report here.

As you will see, Ms. Diaz

did take a voluntary drug test

but the results indicate

signs of marijuana use and PCP.

- What?
- Your honor,

we would also like
to have a copy

of those results?

I'm sorry,
this just came in now.

- Yeah, I'm sure it did.
- All right.

Go on, Mr. Denholz.

Furthermore, your honor,

the respondent
has a criminal record

in regards to drug trafficking.

That was over six years ago,
and the charges were dropped.

Ms. Diaz, you'll have
an opportunity to respond.

Indeed it would've been nice
to have had this

in advance, Mr. Denholz.

Well, I'm sorry, your honor,

what with the lack
of intake since...

- Ms. Fisher.
- Your honor, as you know,

we have just received
these materials...

- They're nonsense, your honor.
- No, they are not nonsense,

Ms. Diaz, and I'm reluctant
to return children

to a parent who's using drugs.

What? No, no, no,

I just had a couple
of puffs on a joint.

I didn't know
it had anything in it.

And she told me the drug test

was gonna be for heroin or crack

- and of course I'm...
- Hold on, Ms. Diaz,

this is a conversation
you should be having

with your attorney in private.

Your honor, if I can just have

- a second with my client.
- I trust you understand

how many cases
we have backed up today.

I do, I do.

Please, let me handle this.

You're doing more harm
than good.

Why didn't you tell me
they were testing for marijuana?

We can discuss that later,
just please let me handle this.

I want my kids home, tonight.

Don't lose your cool, okay?

The judge is starting
to turn on you.

Your honor, at first glance,

this drug test
only indicates minor traces

of both marijuana and PCP,

certainly nothing
that indicates long-term use.

The arrest record
is almost a decade old

and the conviction
was overturned.

As you know, my client
has no history with ACS,

and the children's
attorney testified

that David and Tia
want to return home.

I see no reason why
their wish shouldn't be

granted at this time.

Mr. Denholz?

Judge,

we have a boy here who suffered

from facial lacerations
and a concussion,

all indications

are that it was caused
by the mother.

That, in conjunction
with the original report

from the neighbor,

plus the medical information

documenting
the child's injuries,

we feel that it is prudent

that we keep custody
of the children

until we do a more
extensive background check.

No, my kids want to come home!

I'm not an addict,
I'm a good mother!

Sit down, Ms. Diaz.

Why do you keep calling me miss?

In my courtroom,
I address everyone

by their last name,
now sit down!

Ms. Fisher, if your client
has one outburst,

I will remove her.

I'm losing Patience.

I understand, your honor.

Miss Dunbar,
what is your position

- on this issue?
- Your honor,

perhaps the children
may be returned home

with supervision.

Mr. Sanjuro,
can the children

be returned home
with supervision?

That will take our office
a few days to organize.

Now, would the respondent
care to speak?

Ms. Diaz.

I got arrested when I was young

for doing something stupid,
I was completely set up.

I'm a good mother.

I got a job, I'm not on welfare.

I had an argument with my kid

because I was afraid
he was doing drugs,

he disobeyed me

and was hanging out
with the wrong crowd.

I was just trying
to discipline him

and maybe things got
a little bit out of hand,

- I would not...
- What do you mean when you say

got a little out of hand?

Well, I lost my temper
with my boy

but that concussion
was an accident.

An accident that resulted

from an argument
with you, correct?

Yeah, maybe.

Ms. Diaz, excuse me,

but that is how
I will address you.

Would you say
that you have a temper?

Um... yeah, I suppose.

Sometimes.

Yeah, I suppose sometimes, too.

Now, I very much want
David and Tia to return home.

Mr. Sanjuro,

can you arrange for supervision

for the Diaz household,
a.S.A.P?

Ms. Diaz,

I would like you to start
anger management counseling.

Would you be open to that?

- I guess.
- You guess?

Look, I work long hours as it is

and I just want to see
my kids every day.

Understood.

Mr. Sanjuro
can work with you

to find a time.

I really think
it could be useful, Ms. Diaz.

Okay.

So...

Can I get the kids back now?

Um, it'll take at least two days

before supervision
can be organized.

Don't touch me.

Your honor. Your honor?

I'm sorry,

ACS is not allowed
by law to care

for the children
for more than five nights.

Let's see, the children

have been there for...

This is the fifth night.

Wouldn't it make sense
to keep them there

until home supervision
is arranged in two days?

These are the guidelines.

Are you sure the supervision
could not be

- sped along?
- Your honor,

- we are so understaff...
- Understaffed, okay.

Ms. Diaz, you're sure
there's no family

in the area?

No, ma'am.

Mr. Sanjuro, please
see if you can arrange

short-term foster care
for the children?

Please keep them
as close to home and school

as possible and make certain

that Ms. Diaz
has full-time access.

Now, everyone take out
your books.

Wednesday at 3:00 P.M.,

- any objections?
- Your honor, I have

a departmental hearing that day.

The Martinez case.

Okay.

What about next Tuesday
at 3:00 P.M.?

Hopefully, we can formalize

David and Tia's return home

and there will be
nothing but smiles

at the end of the session.

Thank you.

You're a lousy lawyer.

If you had just
sat there quietly

- and let me do my job...
- Well, it's hard

to sit quietly
when they're saying

lies about you,

when they're trying
to take your kids away.

You don't have any kids, right?

Right.

Why didn't you tell me
you were arrested?

Why didn't you tell me
they were testing for pot?

I can't help you if you don't

tell me these things.

Okay? I need to know
about you, Sara.

You're just a little rich girl.

You'll never know me.

And I want another lawyer.

We can get you another lawyer,

but I think that would be
making a big mistake.

I'm living a big mistake.

I want another lawyer.

Fine.

We'll get you another lawyer.

Well, this is
all very mysterious.

Sorry.

I didn't know
where else to do this.

You look terrible.

What's going on?

Nancy's having an affair.

Oh, lord.

You're kidding.

- No.
- I'm sorry, drew.

Yeah, so am I.

Well, does this mean
the end of the marriage?

Yeah, I think so.

Well, don't be rash.

She wouldn't be the first spouse

in the world to fool around.

- Martha.
- I Mea...

Nancy is having an affair
with Jason.

Did you hear me?

Your husband
is screwing my wife.

That's ridiculous.

They're together
in Boston, today.

Oh, hey.

Hello.

I missed the earlier shuttle.

I didn't call.

I thought you were gonna be

with your sister tonight?

Yeah, I was.

How was your trip?

Okay, anything to eat
in the kitchen?

Didn't you and Nancy get dinner?

- How did you...
- Drew.

Poor guy is devastated.

Nancy shouldn't have forgotten
her cell phone,

I would have thought
she would've covered

her tracks better,
but then again,

she's always been cunning
in sport.

Well...

Say something.

I didn't... I didn't
expect this to happen.

I would never want to hurt you.

Please spare me that speech.

Your clothes, or at least
what's left of them,

are in the bedroom.

- Can we talk about this?
- No.

I'll be back in an hour
and I want you gone.

I want you out of this house.

- Martha.
- Call Nancy.

I'm sure drew is throwing her
out tonight, too.

- Martha, wait a second.
- Prick.

You couldn't pick some
anonymous secretary,

you have to screw one
of my oldest friends' wives?

Is it a white bitch
what turns you on?

Is that what you really want?

You would do this to me?

You make me sick.

You're a spineless fraud
and you fucking disgust me.

- Hey.
- Hey.

You live in here
these days or what?

Feels like it.

Mrs. Barnes said
she'll call you

when they assign you
another lawyer.

Yeah, well, she said that
three days ago.

How are your kids doing?

They're staying
with some old lady now.

She seems nice enough
but there's, like, six kids

in that house
and I just don't like

the look of some of them.

Really? There shouldn't be
that many kids there.

Someone should notify ACS
about that, okay?

Yeah.

I'm gonna get back to work.

Are you happy now?

What?

Yeah, happy
that I'm sitting here

with no lawyer?

Seriously?
Are you... no.

No, that doesn't make me happy.

When I start something,
I like to finish it.

Do you wanna go into the office

and try to get your kids back?

You're saying you're gonna work

for me again?

No, Sara, I'm not saying
I'm gonna work for you.

I'm gonna work with you.

Has ACS made the necessary
arrangements for supervision?

Yes, we have, your honor.

But our office has received
some new information

we'd like to share
with the court.

Mr. Denholz,
you have a habit

of introducing new information

at the 11th hour
and I don't like it.

I know.
I apologize, your honor.

It will never...

Miss Diaz,

did you tell this court
that David and Tia's father

was dead?

Yes.

Well, according
to this paperwork,

the children's father,
Shawn Monroe,

is very much alive
and incarcerated

at buffalo state penitentiary.

Now, Ms. Diaz,

you do understand
that there are penalties

for not telling the truth
in a court of law?

Yes, and I'm sorry,

I was told he was dead
years ago.

When was the last time
the children saw their father?

I don't know,
they were very little

when he went to prison.

Mr. Sanjuro,
have the children

ever made mention of the father?

They believe he's dead,
your honor.

Well, Ms. Diaz,

until we consult
with the father,

we can't make any determination

on their custody.

No, but he's in prison.
He's a criminal.

He was never interested in them.

Please control your temper,
Ms. Diaz.

It doesn't matter
if I control my temper or not,

you're still gonna keep
my kids from me.

I will not give you
another warning.

- Take a deep breath.
- Mr. Denholz,

when you make contact
with the children's father,

can you please share
your findings

with the court immediately?

The respondent and her counsel
would be grateful

to have that information prior

to our next court hearing,
your honor.

Due noted, Ms. Fisher,

along with your sarcastic tone.

And will you two
please stop the chattering?

It looks like
someone else could use

- a little anger management.
- That's it.

Officer,
please escort Ms. Diaz

- from the courtroom.
- No, it's fine.

I'm leaving.
I'm invisible here.

Wait for your counsel outside.

As soon as I get the report
on the children's father,

I will contact you to arrange

for the next court appearance.

And Ms. Fisher,

perhaps, next time you can
troubleshoot information

from your client.
I don't like these surprises.

Neither do I, your honor.

What's wrong with you?

Come on, David.

Hey!

David, stop it.

David, no more.

- He's the jerk.
- Stop it, David!

- Where's Ms. Cheney?
- She's right here!

Sara.

You're early today.

The children just got home.

Where have you been?

I had to get some milk.
I was just gone a minute.

Um, I didn't have
a chance to call,

but I told the kids
I was gonna take them

for some dinner
and ice cream tonight.

The ACS people
told you that, right?

You know, a little something
special for them.

- No, I don't remember any...
- Well, maybe they called

when you were out
getting your milk.

We won't be long, I promise.

Let me check my messages.

Okay.

Just go get your clothes
and backpack.

And Tia,
go get Mr. Blacky.

- Why?
- Please just do it, okay? Go.

Come on.
Go, go, go, go, go.

- I'm coming.
- Okay.

Where are we going again?

Hartford.

Why are we going to Hartford?

Because it was the next bus
that was leaving.

Where is Hartford?

I don't know.

What about school tomorrow?

You're getting a vacation.

Yes.

- Sit down.
- Vacation from school.

Put your seatbelt, please.

You see, isn't this
just like old times?

Yeah. Mm, a little small
for old times.

This is cozy.

Denise, you did a great job

setting this up for dad.

- Thank you.
- I miss the old place.

Oh, we know, daddy.

It's natural.
I miss it, too.

But you know what, you were
really smart to move in

- to something smaller.
- Look, you are starting

a new life.

And the old house

was a constant reminder of mom.

What are you talking about?

I'm gonna miss your mother
wherever I am.

That is not
what I meant and you know it.

Okay, okay.

Denise, you make
the best green beans.

- Thank you, Martha.
- Mm-hmm.

Where's Jason tonight?

I was afraid you'd ask that.

Jason and I have separated.

- You're joking.
- Why?

He was fooling around
with the wife

of a good friend of mine.

When did all this happen?

A couple of weeks ago.

And he left you?

No, I kicked him out.

- Good.
- Good? What's good about it?

Excuse me?

Nothing.

I never would have guessed

that he'd do
something like that.

Did you tell Elliot?

Not yet.

We will, once I calm down.

Talk it out with Jason first.

Talk what out?

He made a mistake.

Men think with their penis.

A woman your age,
you don't wanna end up alone.

Yes, I'd rather be alone.

How am I supposed
to trust him again?

Just don't shut the door.
That's all I'm saying.

Denise will tell you.

After a certain age,

you don't always get
a second chance.

Are you kidding me?

You're my father
and this is the advice

you give me?

- Jesus.
- Martha.

Hmm, Martha.
Martha?

Why aren't you asleep?

What are you drinking?

Wine cooler.

Hey.

What do you think you're doing?

You shouldn't drink.

You're taking care of me now?

I don't want us getting
in any more trouble, ma.

I know.

Okay.

You go back to bed.

I don't want you
to worry anymore.

One day, this will all be over.

I promise.

What the hell?

- Hello?
- Ally?

Uh, it's Sara.

Do you know what time it is?

I'm sorry.
Um, I'm in Hartford.

You're where?

I think I made a mistake.

I'm sorry. Um...

How come...
Are you still here?

And what about the father?

You knew he wasn't dead, right?

As far as I'm concerned,
he's dead.

I don't want him back
in my life.

Well, he's back.

But he's in prison.
What can he do?

He can make a stink.

He can insist
on his day in court.

What?
What are you saying?

He can come to court?

Yes.

Who's this guy, anyway?

I don't want to talk about him.

You're going to have
to talk about it

one way or another.

When I was 15,
I came to this country

to visit my aunt.

She got sick and I had to stay

and take care of her.

I mean, she had no one else.

She died.

I'm sorry.

I was alone.

I met Shawn.

We got married
and I got my papers.

Everything was really good
for a while.

Then we had kids and, um,

we needed more money.

That's when he started
dealing drugs.

One day, he told us
to go to Albany

and meet him there.

And?

He hid stuff
in Tia's diaper bag.

Jeez.

That's when I got busted.

I mean,

he got his.

He got into a fight
and killed some guy.

I just wanted to put
all this shit behind me.

Well, unfortunately,
our shit travels with us.

Oh, yeah.

Keith.

Can I call you Keith?

Yes, of course, call me Keith.

I got those DS reports.
Thank you.

Yeah, well, I figured
you didn't need

any more surprises, right?

Your client supplies enough
on her own.

She's a good person, you know.

Uh, hello, she ran off
with her children.

I told you guys that house
was overcrowded.

Her kid was fighting
when she went to visit.

There was no supervision.

What she did was
completely understandable.

Can you just cut her
a little bit

of slack for once?

No, it's not my job
to cut her slack.

Come on, you can't
possibly be that hard.

- Are you flirting with me?
- What?

Jeez.
You flirted with me.

No, I'm not trying
to flirt with you.

I'm trying to reason with you.

Okay, reason with me in court.

The authorities
have been notified.

She'd be lucky if she avoids
kidnapping charges.

You really suck, you know that.

I've seen what it's like
when you make a mistake

and you hand a kid over
to an unstable parent.

This is not a game.

It's been six weeks
since the city was shocked

by the death of five-year-old
Sofia Martinez.

And the mayor is expected
to announce today

the findings
from the investigation

into the case.

New York one sources

expect a major shake-up
at ACS.

- Mr. Sanjuro.
- This was a week ago,

- your honor.
- And the children?

The children were in school
the next day,

the foster parent
has been reported.

The children are reassigned
to a new home.

Thank you, Mr. Sanjuro.

And the respondent
has had no contact

with the children since?

Your honor,
the visitation rights

have been rescinded
till this hearing.

And no word on the father?

The father wishes
to be consulted

on all matters of custody.

Ms. Fisher.

Your honor, my client believed

that her children
were in danger.

And by all accounts, they were.

I notified ACS of the situation

weeks ago to no avail.

My client knows
that she was wrong

in taking her children
for an overnight

and promises the court
that it won't happen again.

Ms. Diaz,
would you like to speak

to the court directly?

Um, no, your honor.

I'm going to leave

all the talking to my attorney.

Ms. Dunbar?

The children seemed fine.

They would like to see
their mother

and we would like that, too.

Mr. Denholz,
where do you stand

on the issue of visitation?

Your honor, we at the department

have decided
not to press charges.

We feel Ms. Diaz's actions
grew out of frustration

and genuine concern
for the well-being

of her children.

We suggest that
we reinstate supervised

visitation rights immediately.

Very well.

Mr. Denholz, let us know
when we have more information

about the father.

Yes, your honor.

Thank you.

Clear the court.

What a lovely surprise.

Are you feeling okay?

Yes. I'm fine.

Oh, it's so sweet
of you to visit.

Yes, sit down.

I hope you'll be here
for Thanksgiving.

I haven't even thought
about it yet.

Do you want something
to eat or drink?

No. I'm okay.

I want to talk to you
about something.

Yes?

Something that's not
entirely pleasant.

Yes?

You remember when I was little

- and uncle frank...
- Ah,

yes, of course, I remember.

Do you think I'd forget
something like that?

Well, that's the thing,
I don't know.

You've never acknowledged it.

Well, why would I?

You were young.

These things get blown
out of all proportion.

The memory

plays its games.

"The memory
plays its games?"

Yes.

I spoke to frank at the time,

he said he was
just fooling around.

It was
an innocent misunderstanding.

He kept his distance
from you after that.

You told me then
I was exaggerating.

Because I believed you were.

You dismissed it.

You dismissed me.

Have you ever discussed
this with anyone?

You mean aside
from the two shrinks

that I've seen?

No.

Okay.

Thank you for...

Keeping your promise.

I didn't want this to ever come

between your father and Frankie.

Did you ever think about me?

It wasn't as though he raped you

for goodness sakes, dear.

He touched me inappropriately.

Frankie said that
he was just tickling you.

His hand was where
it shouldn't have been.

He did things to me

under the guise
of playing games.

And he did it in your house,

and I told you
because I trusted you

because you were grandmother.

And I spoke to him

and he never
did it again, right?

- Not with me.
- Not with anyone!

He's been in counseling
for years.

Your uncle has his problems

but he continues to seek help.

It's water
under the bridge, ally.

You've got to stop hanging
onto that.

I don't want to.
Do you think I want to?

- Believe me, I don't.
- All right, I am very,

very sorry.

Okay?

Is that what you want to hear?

You've got to let it go

for the family's sake.

Just...

- What's this?
- Read it, two citations

for loitering around schools.

- Where'd you get this?
- I work in family court.

I was looking for a document
that had my name attached.

Well, this was a long time ago.

The second one
was not that long ago.

This is not
an easy thing to say.

But you're not going to be
around forever.

You have to tell dad.

It is in everyone's
best interest

before uncle frank gets himself

into real trouble.

He is very sick.

He is on medication now.

Tell dad.

I'll give it some thought.

There's nothing to think about.

You tell him now or I will.

You have a cruel streak,
young lady.

Well, I am your granddaughter.

You tell him by this weekend

or I will.

Bye, gram.

Mr. Sanjuro.

Ms. Schulman.

I am so sorry.

Thank you.

You know,
if there's any consolation,

they had no business

putting you on leave
especially without pay.

They just needed a fall guy.

Yeah, I know.

You got any plans?

My brother-in-law
got me a job

at a place
called, um, gracious homes.

- Ah, oh, yeah.
- Yeah, and, uh,

I'd have to pay my dues first
but he says I'll be in line

for a manager's job.

Ah, the salary is better
than what I'm pulling in here.

Oh, I wish you well.

It's gonna be a loss
not having you here.

I guess I'll miss it,
but I won't miss the stress.

There's something
to be said for that.

But, you know,
maybe this will all blow over

and they'll reinstate you.

You know, I can't really see
myself coming back here

to tell you the truth.

I understand.

You...

You always run a great court.

Oh, thank you.

I know I wasn't
everyone's favorite judge.

Have a great Thanksgiving.

You as well.

Enter.

Nice office.

No, it's not.

- Sit down.
- What's up?

Um, I want to talk you
about the Diaz case

and not while I'm getting
into the elevator.

Here's the deal.

Uh, the father says

that he will not contest custody

if we just let him meet

with the mother
and the children.

Hmm, I don't think

she's going to go for that.

She said he set her up
in a drug bust.

There's bad blood there.

Be that as it may,
the mother basically

absconded with
the man's children

and he's been trying
to track them down

- for years.
- From prison?

Hey, he's still
the kids' father.

Scumbag or not,
he still has parental rights.

Well, I'll run it by her.

Okay.

Would you like some
of my brownie?

No.

- Thank you.
- You know,

it took some doing
to get him to back off.

- I'm just saying...
- Why are you doing this?

No reason, I just see that
it's a very important case

to you and I want to help you.

No agenda.

Well, thank you.

Would you like to get
a drink sometime?

You know what, Mr. Denholz,
this is getting

a little bit unprofessional,
wouldn't you say?

Last time it was Keith
and you were flirting

- with me first.
- I did not flirt with you,

and I think
it would be inappropriate

for us to socialize.

Some people might think
it was inappropriate

for you to pick up
your runaway client

and her children in Hartford

but not me, of course.

I think that it's very kind

and gracious of you.

I'll get back to you
after I speak to my client.

Asshole.

Let's hear the whip, man.
You saw them in the video, yo?

I don't know how to do
the main notes.

- I got it, my man.
- Yo, and it comes in, man.

That shit's so hard, yo.

Ooh, hey.

Whoa.

You're early, like, by an hour.

Well, I'm sorry, I guess
I couldn't wait to see you.

- You like it?
- Mm. Yeah, it's different.

In case you haven't guessed,
I'm Elliot's mother.

- Hey!
- Oh.

I'm Isaiah and Elliot,
you did not tell me

that your mother was this fly.

Man, shut up.

- I'm the new roommate.
- What happen to Ben?

- They swapped.
- Yeah.

- Better fit.
- Mm-hmm.

Well, Elliot
never said anything, so...

- Oh, well.
- Us uptown guys

got to hang together, Mrs. s.

Dorm stinks of pot.

This campus stinks of pot.

Am I to assume

that you're smoking it
these days?

I suppose.

You know how I feel about drugs.

It's not like
I'm gonna start doing heroin

- like your brother.
- This is not something

to make light of, Elliot.

Sorry.

I mean,
pot is practically legal now.

It's not that big of a deal.

Oh, you looking forward

to being back in the city?

It'll be nice to be home.

It'd be nice to have you there.

Weird without dad.

Looking forward to seeing Julie?

No.

- No, we're finished.
- What?

You two were inseparable.

I know, but come on.

She's in Pennsylvania,
I'm in Connecticut.

- Why didn't you tell me?
- I'm telling you now.

Well, is that okay?

- Don't worry about me, mom.
- I'm not worried about you.

I'm worried about Julie.

She can take care of herself.

Plus, I'm dating a junior now.

You've moved on already, huh?

Yeah. And she's black.

She's older and it's fun
dating someone

- more sexually-experienced.
- Ugh.

That's too much
information, Elliot.

How about you?

How about me what?

Are you seeing anyone?

Don't be ridiculous.
Of course not.

You're still pissed at dad?

Elliot, I'm not gonna talk
about your father.

It's between me and him.

- We both love you.
- Yeah.

You guys always wanna know

everything about me,
but I don't know

anything about you two.

Nothing.

Mom,
they have so many cheesecakes.

Aren't we supposed
to have pumpkin pie, though?

I think you can have
whatever you want.

Right, mom?

This place is so nice.

What do you kids
say to Ms. Fisher?

- Thank you.
- You're so welcome.

Did you see
how I called you miss

just like you-know-who?

I heard that, yeah.

Oh, we're gonna take that to go.

Dessert?
It came with the meal.

We have
pumpkin cheesecake tonight

and of course, pumpkin pie.

What do you kids want?

Can I have
the cherry cheesecake?

I can't decide.

How about you order two desserts

because I'm not gonna have mine?

Okay, I'm having pumpkin pie

and a pineapple cheesecake.

No, no, no.

The pumpkin pie to go, please.

Thank you.

I'm so full.

I cannot eat another thing.

How come you're not
with your family today?

Trust me, I've seen
plenty of them lately.

And no boyfriend?

No.

You're very pretty.

Thank you.

- So are you.
- Oh.

I'm so proud of my kids.

This has been a really
wonderful Thanksgiving.

Thank you.

Why are you thanking us?

Oh, my gosh.

No, no, no, no,

- no, no, no, no, no, no.
- No, but it's mine.

You said that you were stuffed.

You know,
I'm getting used to this

and so are the kids.

I've forgotten what it's like
to have them home.

Yeah.

What's going on?

I know something's going on.

Do you really want
to discuss this now?

Yes.

Tell me.

He's coming down to testify.

Oh, my god.

You're not gonna really

have much choice in the matter.

You have to talk to him.

Have you told the kids?

What am I gonna tell them?

- Tell them the truth?
- Well, the truth is I lied.

These kids are
so confused already.

Go in there now and tell them.

- Now?
- Yes.

No. We had
a wonderful night.

Do it.

You come with me?

No. No, I'm not
coming with you.

Yes, you're coming with me
and I'll tell them.

- No.
- Come, yes.

Okay.

I thought you were gonna be out?

I'm here.

Come in.

Yeah. You're not
gonna come after me

with a pair of scissors,
are you?

That's not funny.

Well, it is, sort of.

Let's sit for awhile.

Oh, thanks.

How are you doing?

Elliot said the two of you
had a good Thanksgiving.

It was okay.

I think he's smoking
too much pot.

He's in college.

That's what you do.

He's fine.
Don't worry about him.

- Martha, we have to talk.
- Yeah.

I wanna talk first.

I'm the aggrieved party,

we always get to speak first.

- Are we in court now?
- No.

First of all,

I'm sorry that I cut up
your clothes.

I was shocked at my behavior

and I said some
very ugly things.

I think your behavior
was very understandable.

I hit you.

I've never hit
anyone in my life.

I've never felt that rage.

I deal with people all day
that have that type of anger

and I just never thought
that I was capable of that.

Martha, you had every right...

Please, I'm not done.

I'm thinking a lot about myself

and, you know,
I'm far from perfect.

I spoke to drew

and he and Nancy
have reconciled.

I can't say that
I'm not still angry,

but...

Jesus, Jason,
we've been together

for 23 years.

I know.

And I hated you
for what you did,

but I'm over it.

No, I'm not over it,
but I've accepted it.

Although,
trust remains an issue,

the fact is,

I want us to move on from this.

- Martha...
- Let me finish.

- I want...
- I want a divorce.

What?

I want a divorce.

It's not about Nancy,
it's... it's about us.

I love you very much,

but us, our marriage,

I feel dead.

Dead?

Why didn't you say
anything before?

You're hard to engage, Martha.

- I wanna talk.
- Not really.

You come home
wiped out from work.

You never tell me
about what's going on...

What, you wanna hear
about the 13-year-old

I put in handcuffs
and sent to detention

or the mother
who scolded her baby?

I... I come home to get away
from all of that.

- Bottom line, Martha...
- But...

- I'm not happy.
- No one's happy

all the time.

For Christ's sakes,
but you never said

that you were so unhappy
that you need to go

outside of our marriage
for love, for sex.

It doesn't work that way.

Nothing is that neat and tidy.

You are an amazing woman.

You... you've worked so hard
to get where you are,

where we are,

but I think we want
different kinds

of lives now.

We? Do not presume to know

- what I want.
- I screwed up. I screwed up.

But you have got to take
some responsibility here, too.

When anything unpleasant
ever arose between us,

you just deflected it.

You are hard to reach.

You are in no position
to lecture me.

I'm not lecturing, god damn it.

I'm telling you how I feel.

Are you or you're just
justifying your own behavior?

I thought we were a team, Jason?

I... I thought we had
each other's backs.

I mean, we struggled together.

What happened?

I don't even know
who the hell you are now.

I guess, I can say
the same about you.

Yeah? Well...

I guess you're right about that.

Because if you knew me,
if you respected me,

then we wouldn't be
where we are right now.

You know, the bottom line,

Jason, is that
I don't trust you.

Right?
And I can't believe

that I was even thinking
about saving this marriage.

I mean, god only knows

what other women you've screwed.

I've been too afraid
to ask you that.

You're a liar, Jason.

Please, we have been lying
to ourselves

for years.

I want you to get your things

and get out of my house.

- Your house?
- Yeah.

It was ours
before you destroyed it.

Go!

Now!

Raise your right hand.

Do you swear to tell the truth?

- I do.
- State your name

for the record, please.

Shawn Monroe.

Do you know
why you're here today?

Yes.

When was the last time
you saw your children,

Mr. Monroe?

Since I was arrested.

I guess, uh, six years or so.

Have you tried
any contact with them?

I tried, yeah.

So, you are aware
of the current circumstances

- of your former wife?
- Former?

We're still married.

I mean, as far as I know.

Okay.
Do you know that your wife

believed you were dead?

Is that what she said?

Well, uh, maybe
that's what she thought.

Maybe I was dead.

Excuse me?

You know, maybe the Shawn

that she knew died.

This is another Shawn
standing here.

Mr. Monroe,

the law allows you

the right to weigh in
on the current

custody matter at hand

and this court will certainly
take your remarks

into consideration but because

of your present incarceration,

your wishes are
in no way binding.

I don't like
that I haven't been able

to see my kids.

I don't like that
I've been erased from them,

like I never even mattered.

They got family.

They have a grandmother
who wants to know them,

who should know them.

I think that, uh, Sara is...

Is probably a good mother.

I wanna hear that from my kids.

I do.

I got no problem.

Judge, I know I haven't been
any kind of father,

but those kids are still
my flesh and blood, too.

I just...

I wanna know them
is all I'm saying.

To look at them.

I wanna tell them
that I'm sorry.

Are there any objections
to Mr. Monroe

meeting with his children,
Ms. Dunbar?

Uh, not if it facilitates

the children's return
to their mother, your honor.

- Mr. Denholz?
- No. No, your honor.

We request
that the visits be supervised

and that Ms. Diaz
be in attendance.

Ms. Diaz?

My client agrees
to these terms, your honor.

I need Ms. Diaz
to state her answer

for the record, please.

I got no problem
with that, your honor.

What's taking them so long?

They've got a lot of things
to talk about.

What if I don't like him?

Maybe you will like him.

He's in jail.

Sometimes good people

make mistakes.

Not my idea of a father.

I just don't wanna see him.

Unfortunately, you have to.

Okay.

Let's go.

I don't wanna go.

Oh, come on, Tia,
everything's gonna be fine.

Come on.

Come on, David, let's go.

Do I look like him?

What?

I just wanna know
before I go in there.

Do I look like him?

Yeah, maybe a little.

What should I call him?

David, why are you asking me
these questions now?

- Call him whatever you want.
- You never even

told me his name.

- I did.
- No, you didn't.

Maybe I didn't.

Well, his name is Shawn.

It's gonna be fine.

I promise.
Come on.

Did I do something wrong?

I was hurt when you told me
to hold on to Jason.

I knew
you were upset about that.

I was thinking more
as a man than as a father.

What's that supposed to mean?

Men are weaker than women.

A lot of temptation out there

and men are the first to fall.

- You really believe that?
- Yeah, I do.

Look what happen
to your brother.

Come on,
buddy didn't end up dead

in the bathroom with a needle
stuck in his arm

- because of temptation.
- Buddy was weak.

How do you know that?

Did you ever have
any real conversation

- with buddy?
- What's that supposed to mean?

We didn't do much talking
in our house, pop.

I mean, who knows what
kind of demons buddy was...

So, it's my fault
that I didn't talk?

For Christ's sakes,
it's no one's fault, pop.

- We never saw it coming.
- Let it go.

It was a lifetime ago

and you and mom
did the best you could.

And it don't go away,

especially at this time of year.

Oh.

Stop beating
yourself up over it.

And you're gonna tell me
you're not gonna beat

yourself up about Jason leaving?

Did you see that coming?

Did you?

I guess not.

I know it hasn't been
easy on you, Martha,

but you can talk to me,

you know.

I feel like a loser, daddy.

You're not a loser.

Don't be ridiculous.

You know, I just come home
and I'm alone,

and my marriage
is falling apart.

Just... Elliot slipping
away from me.

I feel like I'm burned out
from work and I...

You're a strong woman, Martha.

Not really, pop.

You are.

You take after me.

No, I take after mama.

Your mother and I always talked

about you and Denise.

How you two turned out,

best thing we ever did.

Yeah, well, me and Denise
have been making up

for buddy our entire lives.

I'm gonna get supper started.

You sure you wanna cook?

I'm happy to take us out.

No, I'm making
your favorite spaghetti,

mom's recipe.

Oh, that sounds good.

But I want you to set the table.

All right.

And your honor,
the children's father

has submitted an affidavit

stating his desire

that Ms. Diaz
have sole custody.

From our findings, we concur

and we think the children

should be returned home
as soon as possible.

And when might that be?

I think that we can
clear up this paperwork

- by tomorrow.
- Well, so be it.

Ms. Diaz, please stand

or should I call you Sara today?

Fine, if it means I never have
to come back here again.

Well, it's my Sincere hope

that you never step foot
in this courtroom again.

I know that this has been
a long process for you,

but when it comes
to the best interests

of the children
who come before this court,

we always err
on the side of caution.

I'm very pleased to get
David and Tia back home

to you, and I wish you well.

Is there something
you wanna say?

Yes, but if I do,

are you gonna change your mind?

No, of course not.

It's nice
you're wishing me well,

but I have been without my kids

for over three months,

and from day one,
their lawyer say

they wanted
to come home with me.

So, when you're talking
about their best interests,

I don't think
this was good for them.

I also think there are plenty
of rich people

who drink themselves silly
and ignore their children.

They don't even discipline
their children,

and I don't see
any of those people

sitting out there
waiting for hours

because someone accused them
of being a bad parent.

Nobody's taking their kids away.

And yes,

I am very happy
to have my kids home.

But now I have to figure out

how I'm gonna make up
all the hours

I missed at work to be here

so I can support them.

And I have to let
my scared little girl know

that no one's taking her
from her mom again,

and I got to let my boy know

that all of this
wasn't his fault.

So, maybe this is ending
for you, but...

It's not over for me.

That's all I wanted to say.

I'm not gonna get into a debate

with you, Ms. Diaz.

But if you believe
you share no responsibility

in the events that brought you

to this courtroom,
you are mistaken.

Some children are not
so fortunate as yours,

some children whose cases pass

before this court never make it.

And those of us who work here
and work very conscientiously

and very hard, I might add,

are haunted by the fact
every single day

we step foot in this room.

And I will always go to err on
the side prudence and time

because at the end of the day,

it is a far lesser price to pay

than that of a young life.

I can sympathize
with what you've been through

and it might be good of you

to understand
our position as well.

Well, maybe so,

but your position
is always gonna be

sitting up there,

looking down at all of us,

people you know nothing about.

If you have a problem
with me sitting up here,

you can take it up
with the mayor's office

before they reappoint me.

And I don't presume to know

you beyond the confines
of this courtroom,

but I can assure you,
you don't know anything

about us either.

Those of us who work here,

all of us do it
because we believe

in what we're doing.

Lord knows we're not doing it
for the money.

So, go home, kiss your kids,

it might not look like it now

but you're actually
one of our few stories

with a happy ending.

We're done here.

Thank you, everyone.

Clear the court.

What are you doing outside?
It's freezing.

What's that?

What does it look like?

You've never seen
a Christmas tree before?

I need some help
taking it upstairs.

Help me.

Why are you smoking for?
It's just plain stupid.

And if you dare have my boy

to one of your
little parties, Anthony,

I swear I'm calling the cops.

I'm moving to my aunt's.

Wait, wait, wait, wait.

Really? How come?

Reasons.

Are you okay with that?

Like I got a say.

You gonna miss me?

Are you ever gonna stop
being a wise ass, Anthony?

Jesus.

Okay, go.

Wait, okay.

Just one more flight.

You're gonna decorate this tree?

Yeah, with my kids.

I got some lights
for the windows.

You wanna help me?

- I guess.
- No, Anthony, no guessing.

Yes or no?

Yeah.

Okay, hold this.

- You want a drink?
- Yes.

- I'm good.
- You're good? Okay.

Happy holidays,
Ms. Fisher.

Mr. Denholz, you cleaned up
for the occasion.

Yes, I bought this suit
about a week ago.

I got a wedding to attend

and thought I'd give
the collar's threads a rest.

Understood.

Ms. Fisher,

let me put my cards out
on the table, okay?

Do I have a shot
at a date with you?

No.

Ouch. Okay.

Let me leave you
with this thought.

I am smart as anyone
you're ever gonna date,

and i... and I have
a good heart,

and I know at least two women

that think
I'm an excellent kisser.

And for the record,

I am from Brooklyn, Flatbush,

11234 to the core.

I'm not that faux hipster
Williamsburg bullshit.

Good, I feel good about this.

Why don't you mull over
what we talked about here

and get back to me,
Ms. Fisher.

Don't close any doors.

I'm not gonna date anybody
I work with,

but I must say, you've got
certain charms about you

after a couple of eggnogs,
Mr. Denholz.

- Happy holidays.
- Happy holidays, thank you,

- that's... Ms. Dunbar...
- Yeah.

Let me put my cards out
on the table.

Judges, is that how
I'm supposed to address you?

This is my first
social gathering

in mixed company.

Tonight, it's just...
It's mark.

Don't you just love
the Christmas party?

It's very festive.

It's always fun
to see colleagues

out of uniform
in a good Christmas sweater

with a few eggnogs, you know.

So, how are you enjoying
working here?

I don't know if enjoy
is the word that I would use.

It's been challenging.

Well, you certainly knew what

you were getting yourself into.

Of course, but how do you keep

from taking these stories home

with you at night?

Well, if you're lucky,

you learn to just
leave it behind.

I read a lot of trashy novels.

It helps me to compartmentalize.

- Really?
- God bless chick lit.

- Happy holidays.
- Cheers.

Enjoy the party,
Ms. Fisher.

I think I'm just still
on the fence about her.

Shh, shh, shh, shh.

Do you want another drink?

Yeah, I'm gonna get you
a club soda.

- Club soda?
- Yeah, Martha,

a club soda.

Come on, mom.

- Come on.
- Come on.

Oh, my gosh.

That snow deep?

Wow, I can't wait to go home.

- I know.
- I can't wait.

I can't wait to go to sleep

in my own bed.

Heater hopefully works again.

- Yes.
- I got it, I got it.

- Okay.
- I got the door.