Mitsaqan Ghalizan
Vol. 6 No. 1 (2026): Mitsaqan Ghalizan

Judicial Discretion in Post-Divorce Child Custody Determinations Based on the Best Interests of the Child Principle: A Perspective of the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI)

Muhammad Fazrianur Arridho (Universitas Islam Negeri Antasari Banjarmasin)
Kania Arbella (Universitas Islam Negeri Antasari Banjarmasin)



Article Info

Publish Date
20 Jun 2026

Abstract

Divorce in modern society gives rise to various complex legal implications, particularly regarding the protection, rights, and well-being of children. In Islamic family law, the concept of hadhanah, or the right of custody, occupies a central position. This study aims to analyse positive law and Islamic law texts regarding the existence of hadith and to evaluate the consistency of its application in Religious Courts to ensure legal certainty oriented toward child protection. The research method used is normative legal analysis, with a descriptive-analytical approach, based on library research. The results of the study indicate that although Article 105 of the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI) grants the mother priority in the custody of a minor child (mumayyiz), in practice, judges in Religious Courts do not rigidly apply this rule. Judges exercise legal ijtihad and legal discovery by prioritising the child’s best interests. Judges’ considerations are multidimensional; therefore, hadhanah is viewed as a manifestation of parents’ fundamental responsibility. Consequently, rulings by judges within the Religious Court system place greater emphasis on the party best able to ensure the child’s holistic well-being and development rather than merely adhering to the literal text of the law.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jmg

Publisher

Subject

Religion Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

Mitsaqan Ghalizan is a Scientific Journal managed by the Department of Islamic Law (Al Ahwal Al Syakhsiyah), Faculty of Islamic Studies Universitas Muhammadiyah Palangkaraya, and published twice a year (in June and December) by the Institute for Researches and Community Services Universitas ...