Question: How Can I Prepare For A Child Custody Evaluation?
Answer:
Below are suggestions on how to prepare for a child custody evaluation:
- Cooperate with the evaluator. He or she is there to help your family and the judge figure out what will be in the best interest of the children.
- Separate your marital problems from your parenting concerns. You may still have a lot of hurt and anger toward the other parent but marital issues may not be relevant to child custody issues.
- Don’t look at the custody evaluation process as a win/lose situation. This is a good time to try and put the past behind you and focus on the future.
- Parents can help their children by being open and honest with the evaluator.
- The evaluator can be a resource of information. Ask about reading material, parent education classes, counseling and other help.
- Keep your appointments and show up on time.
- Organize school, health and other information that you think will be helpful.
- Make notes of the questions you want to ask.
Related Content: The Purpose of a Child Custody Evaluation
