Abstract
Divorce not only results in the dissolution of the marital relationship but also gives rise to issues regarding child custody. Normatively, Article 105 of the Islamic Law Compilation (KHI) stipulates that a child who has not yet reached the age of discernment (*mumayyiz*) is to be placed in the mother's custody. However, in judicial practice, there are appellate rulings that award custody of a minor child to the father. This study aims to analyze the judges' considerations in awarding child custody to the father and the alignment of such decisions with the principle of the best interests of the child. The study employs a normative-juridical method, utilizing both conceptual and case-based approaches. Data were obtained through a literature review of laws and regulations, *fiqh* literature, and two rulings by the Yogyakarta High Religious Court: Number 32/Pdt.G/2024/PTA.Yk and Number 9/Pdt.G/2021. Research findings indicate that judges do not rely solely on textual norms prioritizing the mother; instead, they consider moral aspects, caregiving commitment, psychological stability, and economic responsibility. Applying the "best interests of the child" principle—as evidenced in the two rulings in question—judges determined that the mother does not automatically hold priority rights to child custody; consequently, based on considerations of the child's welfare and protection, custody was awarded to the father. These findings demonstrate that norms regarding hadhanah (child custody) provisions may be set aside in specific cases if they conflict with the best interests of the child.