When parents continue to disagree about custody after mediation or other attempts to resolve their issues outside of court, the court may order a custody evaluation. A custody evaluator is generally a psychologist who evaluates the child and family members. Based on the evaluation, the evaluator recommends a visitation or parenting plan that is in the child’s best interests. At this point, parents still have the option to reach a settlement about child custody issues and can even use the custody evaluation as a basis for negotiating a settlement. Or, if the couple cannot reach a settlement, the judge takes the evaluation into consideration when rendering a decision.
What custody evaluation involves
- Parents
- Stepparents
- Grandparents
- Significant others
- Step or half-siblings
- Daycare providers
The evaluator may also obtain information from medical professionals, psychotherapists, and school personnel when reviewing the case. Criteria routinely used in evaluating the case include:
- Life history
- Psychological testing
- Academic achievement
- Objective personality tests
- Projective personality tests
- Parenting assessment tests
- Interviews
If custody evaluation seems likely, by using the services and expertise of a Texas divorce lawyer, a parent may have a choice in selecting a custody evaluator, if the court provides such options. An attorney can help with preparation for the evaluation and preparing you for your meeting with the evaluator. Contact a Texas divorce law firm to get questions answered and discuss more about custody evaluation.