LONDON - A British judge is analyzing legal issues stemming from a dispute between Madonna and her ex-husband Guy Ritchie over custody of their 15-year-old son, Rocco.

Judge Alistair MacDonald said Thursday the fact that case is being analyzed can be reported but that no further details can be published.

He said earlier that he "fervently hopes" Madonna and ex-husband Guy Ritchie can reach an amicable solution to end the custody battle. He said a solution is in Rocco's interest.

A U.S. judge involved in the case has made similar comments.

Madonna wants Rocco, who lives with his filmmaker father in England, to return to her custody in the U.S. Madonna and Ritchie divorced in 2008.

The case is being heard in the Family Division of the High Court in London.