Child Custody Evaluations

You may find yourself in a situation where you have divorced, in the processof divorce, or needing to make legal custody arrangements for your child(ren). Often parents in these situations are able to agree on parenting issues. However, there are times when parents cannot agree on what is in the best interests of their child(ren). Hiring an independent, objective Mental Health Evaluator can be very helpful in these situations. For a Child Custody Evaluation to begin, there must be an order from the court stating that a child custody evaluation is necessary. Then both parents and their attorneys will need to agree as to whom they would like to hire. Once this has been arranged, both parents will be seen together for an initial meeting to explain the process, fees, what can be expected and to sign necessary paperwork. The evaluation can then begin. when completing a Child Custody Evaluation, both parents are evaluated, as well as the children in the family. It may be necessary to make a home visit to both homes for assessment. You may also be asked for neighbors or other non-relatives we may speak to for information. The entire process usually takes between 30-60 days, depending on the nature of the case. If a report is needed it will then be written and submitted to the court or the hiring attoryney(s). You will need to pay for the evaluation in full prior to it beginning. If a written report is needed, payment for this will also need to be made in full before the report can be released.

A Child Custody Evaluation is: 1. An objective assessment of the child(ren)'s needs and each parent's ability to meet those needs. 2. An opportunity to focus on the best interests of the child. A Child Custody Evaluation does not: 1. Determine fault or blame for your divorce. 2. Take one parent's side against the other.

It is important to understand that the Child Mental Health Evaluator is not a therapist to you or your child(ren) but is hired to be a neutral and impartial evaluator of what is in the best interests of the child(ren). Once the evaluation has been completed, the professional relationship will end between you and the evaluator.

Dr. Robin E. Dock is a Certified Child Custody Evaluator with over 20 years of clinical experience working with children/adolescents aged 3 through 21, and their families. She is highly familiar with private and public educational settings, 504 accommodations, and special education procedures. As a clinician, she has worked with children/adolescents involved in child abuse, domestic violence, the criminal justice system, and those suffering from depression, anxiety, cutting, drugs/alcohol abuse, relationship issues, disabilities, and those with other diagnoses.