Parenting Plan (Child Custody) Evaluations

As a court appointed evaluator, my role is to conduct a parenting plan evaluation, also known as a child custody evaluation. Each evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of the family in order to make recommendations about the best custody arrangement for the children.

After gathering all the relevant information, I will make recommendations to the court regarding custody and visitation arrangements that are in the best interests of the children. The recommendations will take into account factors such as the child's age, developmental needs, relationship with each parent, and each parent's ability to provide a safe and stable home environment.

It's important to note that the child custody evaluation process can be lengthy and emotionally challenging for all involved, but it is designed to ensure that the best interests of the children are prioritized in the custody decision-making process.

All Child Custody Evaluations include the following :

• Psychological testing

• Multiple interviews with each parent

• Interviews with the child(ren), as age-appropriate

• Observation of parent-child interaction

• Collateral sources such as step-parents, family members, therapists, teachers, and any other persons who are in a position to provide information

• Review of educational documentation, police reports, and any other information the parents deem appropriate for review, including written and audio-visual data.

• Information from past and present mental health professionals