What Are Child Custody Evaluations?
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What Are Child Custody Evaluations?
Child Custody Evaluations
Some custody cases involve serious allegations concerning parental fitness. These allegations can include substance abuse, mental health issues, domestic violence and/or child abuse. Many litigants in cases involving these serious allegations either agree or are directed by the court to participate in a child custody evaluation.
In Arizona, there are many local, private mental health professionals who are qualified to be listed on the court’s roster to conduct child custody evaluations in a family law matter. Once one of these qualified mental health professionals is appointed by the court, then they will conduct a thorough investigation as to the family dynamics and allegations being made in a contested custody case.
A custody evaluator will review court documents, police and medical reports and any additional documentation relevant to a particular matter. The custody evaluator may also conduct psychological testing on both parents. In addition, children and other third party individuals may be interviewed at the evaluator’s discretion.
Unlike mediation, the custody evaluation process is not a confidential one. Once the evaluator has considered all of the relevant and necessary information to address the allegations, then the evaluator will issue a written report. This report contains the evaluator’s impressions and opinions regarding the allegations and also sets forth recommendations as to what legal decision-making and parenting time arrangements the evaluator believes would be in the child’s best interests.
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