Understanding Child Custody Evaluations

In each child custody case, unless it is undisputed by both parties, a child custody evaluation will be conducted to determine the type of custody awarded to each parent. Although this can be a difficult time, you can soothe your nerves by understanding what typically happens during an evaluation.

An evaluator is primarily interested in family dynamics as they relate to the child's safety and well-being. He or she will determine that in a few ways. First, both parents will be evaluated separately, and then each child. Then the evaluator will watch each parent's interaction with their children, an event that will generally occur in an office setting, but sometimes in the home as well.

If the evaluator then believes that psychological testing is necessary to make a final decision, each member or only certain members will have to complete the testing. Additional interviews with people that are ancillary to the family's life, such as teachers, day care workers, or pediatricians might be conducted as well. Finally, court documents pertaining to the case will be reviewed. When all of this is completed, then the evaluator will make a recommendation regarding who should have custody of the children.

If you are going through a child custody battle, take the time to consult with a family law attorney who can help you.