When conducting a custody evaluation, the goal is to assess the ways in which each parent contributes to the physical, emotional, and social development of the children. The role of a custody evaluator conducting a child custody evaluation involves neutrality and transparency. The goal is to make recommendations to the court as to how both parents can best meet the needs and interests of the children involved.
A child custody evaluation is not counseling, parenting coordination, parenting facilitation, marriage counseling, or any other counseling. The custody evaluator is licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor by the State of Texas. However, in the role as custody evaluator, the professional is not the parties counselor. Specifically, a child custody evaluation is an evaluative process to assist the court in making a decision as to the best interest of a child(ren).
Appointments
Child custody evaluations are done by court appointment only. Typically, both of the parties and/or attorneys agree to the appointment of a custody evaluator before submitting an order to the court. Once a judge signs the appointment for our staff to conduct a custody evaluation, one of the attorneys will send the court order to our office. When we receive the court order, we will send your attorney our custody evaluation agreement and packet to give to you. We will not schedule interviews or home visits until all three background checks are received for each adult in the family home (CPS, FBI, DPS).