What’s at Stake: International Travel, Custody Rights, and Public Reputation
This case spotlights the intricate legal and emotional challenges faced by high-profile parents with global careers. Under U.S. law, a parent generally cannot take a child out of the country without the other parent’s permission or a court order—especially when there’s a history of custody disputes or allegations of abuse.
California, where the couple resides, typically prioritizes the child’s best interests, which includes maintaining stable contact with both parents. If credible evidence exists that a child may be placed in danger, or if one parent poses a risk of flight, the court can impose strict limits—including blocking overseas travel.
For Bailey: A travel ban could disrupt her ability to work internationally—a key income source and professional obligation—while setting a precedent for increased court oversight of her parenting decisions.
For DDG: Failure to convince the court of imminent risk could backfire, with the judge viewing the last-minute emergency motion as a tactical move to gain leverage, rather than a legitimate safety concern.
