The Importance Of Custody Evaluator

By Sherry Gross


It is important that you understand what really entails custody evaluation in order to make the right decision. To begin with, a custody evaluator is a professional appointed by the court to resolve matters that touch on parenting. In most cases, evaluators are qualified psychologists who are well placed to solve family related issues about custody and well being of children.

The main role of these professionals is to evaluate the prevailing circumstances and make recommendations to the court. They therefore advise on visitation programs for the children and things that are related to their welfare. Their decisions are based solely on the existing situation and which will always differ from one family to the other. Basically, they leave nothing to chance when it comes to the welfare of the kids.

Information is gathered using different methods before the evaluator can write down his or her recommendations to the judicial officers. In most cases, it is usually the last resort after spouses have failed to reach into agreements in previous settlements. However, if parents have agreed on their own on how to take care of children, no evaluation will be needed.

Always choose an experienced evaluator who is well versed with child custody laws. You will not only benefit from valuable advice, but also recommendations that will suit all parties. Do not compromise the quality of services you receive by only charges of the services. You need also to look at his qualifications as well as past records. If he offers great services, then do not hesitate to hire him.

It is important for you to attend all the sessions in order to make the whole process a success. In most cases, parents need to present themselves in more than two sessions as required by the evaluator. The children too will be interviewed so that their side of the story is heard. This is essential in balancing the decisions.

In the course of interviews, court documents will be reviewed too. You may also have to visit government recognized therapy centers for counseling to you and your partner as well as the children. Furthermore, there will be documented evidence on what transpires during this process from the time it commences to the end.

Evaluation is not always confidential as other parties involved can access documents that relate to your case. The best thing you can do is to be prepared, talk to your children about the sessions, and avoid being nervous when facing the evaluator. This will enable you tell your story without fear and favor. Always talk to your attorney about the ongoing process and you may request him to be present when the sessions are underway.

In a nut shell, the process is meant to evaluate and recommend about the best psychological interests of the child. This is always done with a focus on parenting attributes which in this case must benefit the child. The non-discriminatory evaluation process is however only recommended when parents have failed to agree on matters affecting their children.




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