Summary
The Maine Supreme Judicial Court is looking into whether a lower court went too far by stopping a mother from taking her daughter to church and teaching her about the Bible. This case discusses themes of parental rights and religious freedom in custody decisions. The court must decide if a parent’s religion can be restricted due to possible mental harm to the child.
Key Facts
- A Maine mother's custody order prevents her from taking her 12-year-old daughter to church or teaching her about the Bible.
- The father has sole control over decisions about the child’s religious upbringing.
- The order came after concerns that church teachings caused the child psychological distress.
- The mother argues this order violates her constitutional rights for religious freedom and parental rights.
- The case raises questions about how courts handle parental rights and religious freedom in custody cases.
- The Maine Supreme Judicial Court is reviewing if judges can restrict a parent's religious practices due to possible psychological harm to the child.
- The case could impact how courts across the U.S. consider similar issues in the future.
