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The Roles Of A Custody Evaluator

By Sherry Gross


It is important for one to understand in detail about custody evaluation in order to make the best decisions for your children. A custody evaluator, who in most cases is appointed by the court, always plays a central role in the evaluation process. These are highly qualified psychologists who are well versed with family matters.

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.

There are fundamental factors that you will need to look into when choosing an evaluator, but top of the list must be experience and past records. It may be good to look at the charges but this should not make you compromise on the quality of services you receive. The best evaluators in the market are those with higher qualifications from recognized institutions. Additionally, they are members of professional bodies that are recognized by the government.

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.

This process is always aimed to give children support and prevent situations where they are psychologically tortured. Basically, its main objective is to see that the needs of the children are met. It is one of the best ways of solving issues that spouses have failed to agree on especially those touching on the welfare of the children.




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