From what I’ve seen, apologists of the FLDS were convinced the whole thing was a “stich-up”, and the Courts would just rubber-stamp the authorities’ action. OTOH, I get the impression that the Department and its sympathisers hoped and rather expected that, because it was about child welfare, and involved a very unpopular sect with a lot of distasteful notions, said Courts would overlook any legal irregularities “for the kids’ sake”, and go along with CPS’ actions.

What neither seem to have anticipated was what they actually got – a decision which just applied the law “by the book”, without regard to the unpopularity (deserved or otherwise) of the individuals or groups involved.

All in all, a good day for the legal system. The Appellate and Supreme Courts, at least, seem to have acted creditably.