Is a custody evaluation needed in all divorce cases where children are involved?
No. A custody evaluation is most beneficial to parents, children, and judges making decisions, in cases where there are serious allegations of domestic or substance abuse, child abuse, or emotional disturbance. The best solution is for parents to meet with a professional and develop a parenting plan together. The parenting plan will govern your future relationship with your children and your former spouse. It is best if you and your spouse are actively involved in developing it. After all, you know the most about your children and their needs. The best parenting plans are flexible but structured enough to be able to readily implement. They put the children’s needs first, and allow for re-tuning and re-adjustment as circumstances change. In cases needing a custody evaluation, the expert’s report and testimony can impact the outcome of who gets custody of your children. It is intended to assist courts and judges in making decisions that are in the best interest of the child. Katherine A.
