Sia’s Estranged Husband Denied Sole Custody of Their Son After Contentious Divorce Battle
Legal Battle Over Custody: Why Dan Bernad Was Denied Sole Custody
In a recent high-profile custody dispute, Sia’s estranged husband, Dan Bernad, was denied sole custody of their 1-year-old son, Somersault “Summi.” The Los Angeles County court ruled in favor of maintaining the existing custody arrangement, which designates Sia as the primary custodial parent. This decision came after a contentious and emotionally charged legal battle that brought to light serious allegations and counterclaims between the two parties.
Bernad, an oncologist by profession, petitioned the court for sole custody, asserting that he is the “only safe and reliable parent” for their young son. He accused Sia, the internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter, of being an unfit parent due to alleged substance abuse issues. Bernad’s filing claimed that Sia posed a “serious and immediate danger” to their child, citing her recent hospitalization and positive drug tests as evidence.
However, the court found Bernad’s evidence insufficient to warrant a change in custody. The judge emphasized that the parties had already agreed to a stipulated custody arrangement in August 2025, and that most of the facts Bernad presented were known at that time. Consequently, the court ordered both parents to adhere to the existing custody agreement.
Details of the Custody Dispute and Allegations
The custody battle between Sia and Dan Bernad has been marked by serious accusations from both sides. Bernad alleged that Sia was struggling with substance abuse and addiction, rendering her incapable of providing safe and stable care for their son. He further claimed that Sia deliberately concealed her recent two-week hospitalization in Los Angeles, where she tested positive for barbiturates and benzodiazepines without a credible medical explanation.
In addition to requesting sole custody, Bernad sought to impose strict conditions on Sia’s visitation rights, including random and regular drug testing and limiting her visits to two-hour sessions supervised by a professional monitor, three times a week.
Sia, on the other hand, strongly denied these allegations. She described Bernad’s claims as an “attempt to weaponize” her past struggles with sobriety. Sia admitted to battling substance abuse 15 years ago but stated she has been sober for six months. She also pointed out that she had agreed to routine drug screenings for both parents in the past, but Bernad failed to comply with testing requirements.
Moreover, Sia revealed that Bernad’s visitation rights had been limited due to an ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Department of Children and Family Services into allegations of illicit child pornography found on his computer. Bernad denied these accusations and accused Sia of planting evidence to restrict his custody rights. According to court documents, the investigation was inconclusive and subsequently closed.
Current Custody Arrangement and What It Means for the Family
Since filing for divorce in March after two years of marriage, Sia has maintained full custody of their son, Sommi. The court’s recent ruling to deny Bernad’s request for sole custody means that the existing custody agreement remains in place. This arrangement lists Sia as the primary custodial parent, with Bernad having limited, professionally monitored visitation rights.
The judge’s decision underscores the court’s priority to ensure the child’s safety and stability while balancing the rights of both parents. Given the complexity and sensitivity of the allegations, the court opted to maintain the status quo until more conclusive evidence can be presented.
This ruling also highlights the challenges faced by families navigating custody disputes, especially when serious accusations and public scrutiny are involved. Both parties are expected to continue cooperating with the court’s directives and prioritize the well-being of their child.
Conclusion
The denial of Dan Bernad’s request for sole custody of his son with Sia marks a significant development in their ongoing divorce and custody battle. The court’s decision to uphold the existing custody arrangement reflects the importance of evidence-based rulings in family law cases and the need to protect the best interests of the child. As this case continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in high-profile custody disputes.
If you are facing a custody battle or need legal advice regarding family law matters, consult with a qualified attorney to understand your rights and options. Stay informed and prioritize the well-being of your children during challenging times.
