Sia’s Estranged Husband Denied Sole Custody of Son Amid Drug Abuse Allegations
Emergency Custody Request Rejected in Ongoing Divorce Battle
In a highly publicized custody dispute, a judge has denied Sia’s estranged husband, Dr. Daniel Bernad, an emergency request for sole custody of their 19-month-old son, Somersault, also known as Summi. The request was filed amid serious allegations by Bernad accusing the internationally renowned singer of drug abuse and unfit parenting. However, the court found insufficient grounds to grant the emergency custody order, prolonging the complex legal battle between the former couple.
Dr. Bernad submitted the emergency custody petition earlier this week, seeking full legal and physical custody of Summi. His filing included claims that Sia engaged in “reckless” behavior and struggled with substance abuse, which he argued rendered her incapable of providing a safe environment for their child. Despite these accusations, the court ruled that the evidence presented did not justify immediate custody changes.
Details of the Custody Dispute and Allegations
The custody conflict stems from the couple’s ongoing divorce proceedings, which began after Sia filed for divorce in March 2025, citing irreconcilable differences. Since then, both parties have been entangled in a contentious legal battle over the care and custody of their young son.
Dr. Bernad’s emergency order alleged that Sia concealed a two-week hospitalization in September, during which she reportedly tested positive for barbiturates and benzodiazepines without a valid medical explanation. He also accused her of unlawfully transferring power of attorney over their son to nannies, violating their joint custody agreement.
Further claims included Bernad’s assertion that Sia abused ketamine and other drugs during their relationship. He alleged that she purchased approximately $20,000 worth of ketamine during a trip to Egypt and recounted an incident where he found her with $15,000 worth of ketamine in her pockets. Bernad emphasized his own stability, citing his medical profession, good health, and lack of any criminal or substance abuse history as reasons he should be granted sole custody.
In addition to custody, Bernad requested child support exceeding $77,000 per month and demanded that Sia cover all childcare expenses.
Sia’s Response and Court’s Ruling
In response, Sia denied the allegations, stating she has been sober for over six months and has consistently agreed to drug testing. She challenged Bernad’s claims as attempts to manipulate the court and damage her credibility. Sia also highlighted that an investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department into Bernad’s alleged possession of illicit child pornography was closed due to lack of evidence.
The court’s decision to deny the emergency custody request was based on the fact that most of the facts Bernad presented were already known when the parties agreed to a custody arrangement in August 2025. The judge concluded that there was no immediate exigency warranting emergency relief and allowed Bernad to resubmit his request through the regular court calendar if he chooses.
Background on the Couple’s Relationship and Custody Arrangements
Sia and Dr. Bernad were married for two years before their separation. Since the divorce filing, Sia has reportedly paid Bernad approximately $300,000, including monthly payments and covering his therapy and accommodation expenses. The couple initially agreed on a restrictive custody arrangement to protect their son’s wellbeing amid the ongoing disputes.
The legal battle has been marked by mutual accusations and public scrutiny, with both parties seeking to protect their parental rights while navigating serious allegations. The court’s recent ruling underscores the complexity of custody cases involving high-profile individuals and sensitive claims.
Conclusion
The denial of Dr. Daniel Bernad’s emergency custody request against Sia highlights the challenges faced in custody disputes involving serious allegations. While the court found no immediate reason to alter the existing custody arrangement, the ongoing legal proceedings are far from over. For those following this case, it serves as a reminder of the importance of evidence-based claims and the court’s role in safeguarding the best interests of the child.
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