Divorce processes are emotional and can become even more emotional when children are involved. The issuance of the divorce decree may be delayed or even get complicated when children are at stake.  Each parent may think that they are in the best position to raise their children, and it is for such reasons child custody and child support cases are considered to be one of the difficult parts of a divorce.

 

Cases where one parent is involved in child abuse or neglect are easy to determine which parent should receive custody of minor cases. However, in many instances, the children are not endangered.  Most child custody cases are settled in courtrooms. In such cases, the judges will order a child custody evaluation by experts in the field of child psychology, psychiatry, or mental health. The experts will typically evaluate each parent's activities, parenting skills, relationship with the child, the child's preference and feelings, and in most cases utilize the psychological testing. This is why it is best to hire a child support lawyer for assistance on this.

 

One important thing you need to know is that what you tell the evaluator is not subject to any legal privilege and will not be considered confidential. Badmouthing your ex-spouse will not earn you points. While the evaluator is not expected to take sides, their job is to consider the best interest of the children involved. Custody evaluations can be stressful to the entire family, but proper preparations can help through the entire process and assist the evaluator understand the dynamics of the family.

 

Following the evaluation process, the evaluator will present a report to the court. The report will include recommendations for child custody and visitation based on expert opinion. In addition to child custody and visitations, evaluation reports can include a parenting plan, conflict management guidelines and recommendations for counseling or therapy that may be required for parents and children. The recommendation of the evaluator involved can form the basis of a custody agreement. Alternatively, the two parties can reject the recommendations and let the judge have the final say.

 

Other factors that the judge may consider when deciding child custody include: the age of the children, the living situation of each parent, each parent's willingness to support the other's relationship with the child, among other factors. If you get into a child custody dispute and will be involved in a custody evaluation, you should speak to your family lawyer or a child support lawyer. The attorney will help you know more about the process and what you and the children may undergo. Find out how you should prepare the children for the interviews they may be required to attend.