If you are going through a contested child custody evaluation in Pasadena, you are probably wondering how to prepare for a child custody evaluation in Pasadena. During the evaluation, a court-appointed evaluator may speak with both parents, the child, and other people involved in the child’s life. How you answer certain questions could impact the evaluator’s final report.
A judge is not required to follow the evaluator’s recommendations, but the report is an important source of evidence for a judge to consider when making decisions about parenting schedules and rights.
What Is a Child Custody Evaluation?
When both parents work collaboratively to resolve child custody agreement matters during a divorce, a child custody evaluation is generally not needed. Evaluations are generally ordered by the court to gather evidence that can be used to aid the judge in deciding which living arrangements are right for the child’s safety, health, welfare, and interests.
If the investigator uncovers signs of abuse or neglect, a lengthier investigation may be needed. During the investigation, the evaluator may:
- Meet with the child and both parents.
- Visit the child’s home or homes to see how they interact with their parents.
- Speak with adults (such as teachers and doctors) who spend time with the child.
- Review school records.
- Examine the child’s medical records.
- Review any documents useful for the investigation.
- Ask or require the parents to undergo a psychological evaluation.
If there are serious concerns about child abuse, the evaluator may involve law enforcement and request a medical exam of the child. Evidence of child abuse will likely extend the timeline for the child custody evaluation.
How to Prepare for a Child Custody Evaluation
Divorce can create emotional and stressful moments for both parents. If you were told by your Pasadena divorce lawyer that the courts are requiring a child custody evaluation, you will need to address any lingering anger you have against your soon-to-be ex. Any strong emotions of anger or resentment that come across to the evaluator could reflect poorly on you. The evaluator is tasked, in part, with documenting how willing you are to co-parent with the other parent.
Anything that your spouse or partner did to you in the past is not relevant to the evaluation process. The priority is the health and safety of your child. Your priority should be showing the evaluator that your child is your priority and that you will do whatever it takes to make sure their emotional and physical needs are met.
It is natural to have personal beliefs and feelings about who the better parent is. If there is proof of abandonment, abuse, or neglect, your lawyer can use evidence to address those issues in court. Bringing up allegations during the evaluation process could be a distraction that ultimately does not work in your favor. California’s family courts work from the assumption that children deserve loving relationships with both parents.
The process may include a psychological evaluation. Answer the questions of any test you are given honestly. The tests are designed to detect acts of manipulation. Attempts to “trick” the test may ultimately backfire.
FAQs
Q: How Do You Answer a Custody Evaluation Question?
A: You should answer a custody evaluation question honestly. The custody evaluator may find that you are not answering questions openly and honestly, and this could reflect poorly on you. Do not hesitate to convey your desire to provide the greatest life possible for your child after the divorce and your willingness to co-parent. Any allegations against the other parent can be handled by your attorney outside of the evaluation process.
Q: How Do I Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing in California?
A: You prepare for a child custody hearing by carefully consulting with your attorney beforehand. You do not want to be caught unaware that certain questions may be asked. Your family law attorney can go over what to expect. The next step is to prepare yourself emotionally by putting away feelings of anger or resentment that you may have against the other parent.
Q: What Happens at the End of a Child Custody Evaluation in California?
A: At the end of a child custody evaluation in California, the evaluator will issue a final report to the judge. The judge will review the results, but the recommendations are not binding. The family court judge may consider the findings when making a final decision about child custody rights and visitation schedules.
Q: Who Pays for a Child Custody Evaluation in California?
A: The cost of a child custody evaluation is generally split between both parents. A judge may decide that it is fairer for one parent to pay a greater proportion of the fee or even all the fees associated with the child custody evaluation based on the ability of one party to pay.
Q: What Do Judges Look for in Child Custody Cases in California?
A: Judges look for findings that help them determine what parenting arrangement serves the interests of the child. In general, qualities that could look favorable in the eyes of the court include the desire to co-parent and a willingness to trust the family court process.
Schedule Your Child Custody Evaluation Consultation Today
It is not uncommon for a family court judge to assign an evaluator to a child custody or divorce case. The courts have an interest in knowing that both parents can provide a safe and nurturing environment for the child. When both parents are deemed to be fit and responsible, the courts will work out a parenting arrangement that protects the rights of both parents to spend meaningful time with their children.
The process of going through a child custody evaluation can be stressful, but the Law Offices of Patricia A. Rigdon is here to help. Our legal team has guided many parents through the evaluation process with favorable results, and our attorney focuses on family law. We can passionately fight to protect your parental rights as you go through the family court process. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
