4 Tasks to Ensure a Successful Child Custody Evaluation

A child custody contest between divorced spouses can be overwhelming for all parties involved, particularly the child. A court evaluates several issues to guide its decision on which parent to grant primary custody. For instance, a judge considers each parent's current living conditions, which encompass the physical, social, and psychological environments.

A court-appointed evaluator assesses each parent's living conditions and makes an objective report that informs a court's decision. Therefore, adequate preparation for a child custody evaluation visit is critical to enhancing your chances of winning. This post highlights four issues to observe for a successful child custody evaluation.

1. Prepare Supporting Documentation

A child custody evaluation is thorough since an assessor must make conclusive recommendations to the court. Typically, an evaluator will ask for documentation to support their report, such as your child's academic papers, health records, and employment details. Evaluators are keen observers and assess the time you take to provide supporting paperwork. Therefore, file all required documents neatly for a good first impression.



If your case involves unique issues, such as relocation, domestic violence, and child abuse, gather the additional documents from a court file. A family lawyer can help get the records promptly and ready for evaluation. Therefore, ask for specific documents that a child custody evaluator might request, depending on the uniqueness of your case.

2. Encourage Honesty from Your Child

Part of a child custody evaluation involves the assessor observing each parent's interactions with a child. Therefore, you might be tempted to coach your child on what to say or do during their interview with an evaluator. Avoid the urge because evaluators are independent psychologists and can tell if a child was coached.

Before an evaluator's visit, inform your child of what to expect from the guest. Then, ask them to answer questions honestly, even if they prefer the other parent. Child custody evaluators appreciate an honest interview, so how you prepare your kid influences the final report and recommendations. 

3. Familiarize Yourself With the Evaluation Process

Ignorance regarding child custody evaluation can affect your attitude toward the process and negatively influence the final report. For example, some parents might express anger towards the exercise or evaluator, unaware that their attitude can create a negative impression. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the evaluation process to know the expectations.

A family lawyer's guidance is critical as you prepare for a child custody evaluation since they clarify complex aspects of the process. In addition, early preparation encourages full cooperation and a positive attitude toward the exercise, which creates a positive impression and increases your chances of winning.

Ask your lawyer as many questions as possible about the process to know the expectations and how to address an evaluator's concerns.

4. Prioritize Your Child's Needs

The emotional burden of divorce and the subsequent child custody case can make you lose sight of the bigger picture: your child's best interests. Consequently, it is easy to focus on yourself and how you appear to an evaluator, which can hurt your case. Instead, prioritize your child's needs during an interview with a child custody evaluator.

Consider your child's interests and needs when making important decisions since it sends a strong message regarding your willingness to ensure their comfort. For instance, a parent who reschedules an important meeting to attend their child's soccer game or custody interview is concerned about their welfare.

Child custody evaluations do not have to be nerve-wracking, especially if you are well-prepared. A family lawyer experienced in child custody cases is the right professional to ensure an amicable process. Contact us at James W Bodiford, Jr., Law Office for professional guidance to ensure a smooth and successful assessment.