Halle Berry Receives Verdict in Child Custody Case With Ex Olivier Martinez — Details

Halle Berry's bitter custody battle with ex-husband Olivier Martinez has reached a turning point, with a judge's decision bringing the actress both a victory and a setback.

The former couple's dispute over their 13-year-old son, Maceo, has involved serious allegations, testimony behind closed doors, and a controversial social media post that became an issue in court.

According to TMZ on October 29, 2026, Berry and Martinez previously shared custody of their son. Berry's legal team later sought to restore an equal physical custody arrangement.

The case also involved a domestic violence restraining order, leaving the judge with two major issues to resolve.

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez's Custody Fight Involved Serious Allegations

Martinez accused Berry of choking their son, an allegation the actress denied. Berry also opposed having Maceo testify, claiming Martinez had coached the teenager.

Despite her objections, Maceo gave a deposition during a closed court hearing. Both parents were ordered to leave the courtroom while their son testified.

His testimony became part of the proceedings as the former couple continued their dispute over custody.

An Instagram Post Sparked Another Dispute in Court

According to TMZ, Berry's Instagram account appeared to have been hacked earlier in the week. A post published Monday drew an objection from Martinez's legal team.

The message read, "If kids disrespect their mom, the root cause often traces back to their relationship with the father."

Martinez's attorney asked the judge to reopen evidence, arguing that the post was "disturbing my client's peace." Judge Kaufman denied the request.

Judge's Custody Ruling Brings Halle Berry a Setback but Also a Legal Victory

Berry's legal team had sought to restore a 50/50 custody arrangement, according to Martinez's attorney, Patrick Baghdaserians, who spoke to TMZ.

However, the judge rejected that request, leaving Martinez with primary physical custody of their 13-year-old son for now. According to Baghdaserians, the ruling favored his client after the judge heard evidence about how both Berry and Martinez parent Maceo.

Despite the physical custody ruling, Halle Berry and Martinez continue to share legal custody of Maceo. Berry secured a separate victory when the judge dissolved the domestic violence restraining order. The custody decision may not be final.

Baghdaserians told TMZ that the judge is expected to reconsider custody matters in November, potentially bringing the former couple back to court the following week. Until then, Martinez will retain primary physical custody of Maceo.