The best outcome would be for the relatives to turn Elian over to his father as soon as Gonzalez arrives, and to do so in a spirit of kinship that makes the transition as smooth as possible for Elian. Once that happens, Gonzalez and Elian, though technically free to return to Cuba, should remain here to (await) an appellate court ruling on the case, which is expected next month.  
 Verb: await
Yes