How To Prepare for a Child Custody Evaluation in San Diego

Anyone who is going through a child custody evaluation in California should understand the basic steps of how to prepare for a child custody evaluation in San Diego. Child custody evaluation involves a court-appointed evaluator who speaks with the child, both parents, and possibly other adults who are involved in the child’s life. While a judge is not required to follow the recommendations in the final report, the evaluator’s insights often carry weight in court.

What Is a Child Custody Evaluation?

Child custody evaluations are generally used when both parents are unable to agree on child custody terms. To ensure that the child’s custody agreement and visitation schedule allow the child to live in safe, healthy environments, a judge may assign a custody evaluator who gathers evidence before making a final report that is presented to the judge at a hearing.

The process can easily take several weeks or longer. If the child custody evaluator finds evidence of abuse or neglect, they may notify the appropriate authorities or request a medical exam for the child. Child abuse investigations often extend the timeline for completing the evaluation.

As part of the evaluation, the court-appointed evaluator may meet with both parents to learn about their backgrounds, parenting styles, and willingness to co-parent. Visits to the homes of the parents are often a part of the evaluation process. The evaluator will often want to see how the child interacts with both children in the child’s natural environment.

The evaluator may also ask to speak with the child’s doctors, teachers, and other adults who spend time with the child. Other components of an evaluation may include the reviewing of school records and medical records. Both parents may undertake a psychological evaluation before the report is finalized.

Signs of child abuse are taken seriously by the courts. If warranted, the appropriate law enforcement officials may be notified.

How To Prepare for a Child Custody Evaluation

Divorce can be emotionally taxing, especially when a child custody evaluation is required. If your lawyer has informed you of a pending evaluation, work to manage any lingering negative emotions you have toward your soon-to-be ex. Displaying strong emotions can reflect poorly on you as the evaluator assesses your willingness to co-parent.

Past grievances with your spouse are irrelevant to the evaluation. The focus is on your child’s health and safety. Show the evaluator that the well-being of your child is your top priority and that you will do whatever it takes to ensure their emotional and physical needs are met.

While you may have opinions on who is the better parent, keep the evaluation centered on the child. If there is evidence of abandonment, abuse, or neglect, your lawyer will address these in court.

Bringing them up during the evaluation may be distracting and counterproductive. California’s family courts assume children benefit from relationships with both parents.

If a psychological evaluation is part of the process, answer the questions honestly. Any attempt to “trick” the test by choosing what you think is the most suitable answer may not help you in the end. These tests are designed to detect manipulation, and any attempt to deceive them could work against you in the end.

FAQs

Q: How Do I Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing in California?

A: Prepare for a custody hearing by consulting your attorney and anticipating questions. Your lawyer can brief you on what to expect. Family law attorneys in California have helped many clients complete the evaluation process with favorable outcomes. You can emotionally prepare by setting aside any anger or resentment towards the other parent.

Q: How Do You Answer a Custody Evaluation Question?

A: Answer custody evaluation questions truthfully. Being perceived as uncooperative can harm your case. Express your commitment to your child’s well-being and willingness to co-parent. Address any concerns about the other parent through your attorney, not during the evaluation. Ultimately, the evaluator is there to assess your dedication to being a parent. That should be the focus of your answers.

Q: What Happens Once the Child Custody Evaluation Is Completed?

A: The evaluator will write a final report that is given to the judge. The judge can consider the findings when making decisions about child custody, but the judge does not have to incorporate the final report into their final order. Your lawyer will have the opportunity to address any areas of concern with the judge.

Q: Who Pays for Child Custody Evaluation in California?

A: The cost of a child evaluation is generally split between both parents. A judge may decide that it is more fair for one parent to pay a greater proportion of the fee or even all of 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: The cost of a child custody evaluation is typically divided between both parents. However, a judge might determine that it’s fair for one parent to bear a larger portion or even the entirety of the evaluation fees, considering their financial capacity. This decision ensures that the evaluation process remains equitable despite the differing financial circumstances between the parents. If you are ordered to undergo an evaluation, you should expect to pay for at least part of that cost.

Schedule Your Family Court Consultation Today

Family court judges often appoint evaluators for custody or divorce cases to ensure a safe environment for the child. When both parents are deemed fit, the court arranges a parenting plan to uphold their rights to meaningful time with the children. By answering any questions or tests honestly and without bitterness toward your spouse, you can complete the process and be that much closer to finalizing your divorce or child custody dispute.

Throughout the process, the award-winning attorneys at Bickford Blado & Botros will be there to guide you and provide legal counsel. We will complete and file any documents needed as part of the child custody evaluation process to prevent delays or mistakes. Contact one of our divorce lawyers today to safeguard your interests during your accelerated divorce.

 

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