Child-Custody Evaluations
The evaluator is typically appointed by the court or mutually agreed upon by both parties’ attorneys. The court order/referral outlines the scope of the evaluation and specific questions to be addressed (e.g., custody arrangements, parenting time). This is often referred to as the “referral question” and guides our scope of investigation.
The evaluator reviews all relevant legal documents, including court orders, custody petitions, prior evaluations, and any records provided by the attorneys.
The parties are each expected to reach out to the evaluator to schedule the initial appointment. In this appointment, the evaluation process is explained in-depth, informed consent is obtained, and confidentiality limits and the purpose of the evaluation is discussed.
Confidentiality. It is important to recognize that when these matters are court ordered, there are limitations as to confidentiality because the court is our client. Our ethics and guidelines prohibit us from providing any recommendations or advice outside the limited scope of our investigation. Sometimes the court may appoint us to provide therapeutic services; however, this is after the evaluation has been completed and submitted to the court.
Multiple clinical interviews are conducted to explore parenting history, current concerns, and each parent’s understanding of the child’s needs. The number of interviews required depends on the complexity of the case and the depth of information that must be gathered. Topics often include parenting practices, disciplinary strategies, living arrangements, and co-parenting dynamics.
Collateral information will additionally be gathered and reviewed by the evaluator from sources deemed pertinent to your case. This may include legal records, medical records, mental health records, academic records, interviews with parties deemed relevant by the evaluator. When you come to our office, it will be requested that you fill out all relevant HIPAA compliant releases
Depending on the age of the child(ren), the evaluator will meet with the child(ren) to assess their emotional well-being, perceptions of each parent, and preferences (if developmentally appropriate). The evaluator may use child-appropriate methods such as play, drawings, or standardized measures. It is of our utmost importance that your children feel comfortable and safe while meeting with the evaluator.
The evaluator observes each parent interacting with the child in both structured and unstructured circumstances to assess parenting skills, attachment, communication, and responsiveness.
Standardized psychological assessments may be administered to the parents, the child, or both to evaluate mental health, parenting attitudes, personality traits, and coping abilities.
All gathered information is synthesized to form a comprehensive understanding of family dynamics, each parent’s strengths and limitations, the child’s needs, and potential risk factors. A formal written report is prepared, summarizing the methods, findings, interpretations, and custody recommendations. The report is submitted to the court and shared with the involved parties and their legal representatives.
The evaluator may be called to testify in court to explain the findings and defend the recommendations under cross-examination.