<![CDATA[The family is the smallest entity that plays a crucial role in the social structure of society. This article aims to examine the sustainability of the family in cases of child sexual violence in relation to the thinking of judges in gender-based crimes in religious courts in South Sulawesi. This study is an empirical legal study using the theory of power inequality and gender relations, feminist criminology theory, and law enforcement theory. Data were collected based on interviews and literature studies. The research findings reveal that judges prioritize the protection of children who are victims of sexual crimes, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a fair legal process that considers the physical and psychological well-being of girls who are victims of sexual violence. Sexual violence is a gender-based crime that primarily affects girls, influenced by derogatory perceptions of women and by abuse of power by perpetrators, including parents. The family institution plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of children, especially girls, from sexual crimes. This responsibility includes strict prosecution of perpetrators of sexual crimes, providing support and rehabilitation services for victims, and education on the recognition and prevention of sexual crimes. Theoretically and practically, judges have carried out legal prevention in cases of sexual crimes against girls by considering various factors, namely legal, moral, and social aspects. Judges give top priority to protecting child victims and taking preventive measures.]]>
