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Child Custody Evaluations: Dos and Don’ts for Parents

If you are in the middle of a child custody battle, you may have to deal with a custody evaluation as part of the court procedure. Evaluation meetings can be challenging, especially when you don’t know what to do, which can further complicate your case. However, it is very important to understand that the person evaluating your child custody case will have recommendations that are not required by law in any way. But your suggestions and advice carry a lot of weight and could convince the judge for or against the custody agreement you hope to achieve.

Doing your best to present yourself as favorable is not a bad thing; it is completely natural. But as a parent, you should know the following pros and cons of child custody evaluations.

BACK

1. Show your willingness to work with your ex-wife – There are some parents who have lost custody battles simply because they showed a lack of collaborative effort and cooperation between them. Remember that you don’t have to like your ex, but keep in mind that he is still a part of your child’s life, so you need to show the court your ability to work together.

two. Talk to your child (ren) about what to expect: It is never easy for a child to have disputed parents. They may also hesitate to meet with the evaluator for fear that they will say the wrong thing. Explain clearly that the role of the evaluator is to help you and your ex-wife learn how to collaborate more efficiently, and that there are no “right” or “wrong” answers to the questions that will be asked.

3. Learn about family law Check the child custody laws that are relevant to the state you live in so you know what to expect beforehand.

Four. Prepare your documentation – In cases where you really believe that your children’s safety will be at stake with your partner, for example because you have a history of physical abuse, then you should carefully document your interactions with your children, as well as with yourself.

5. Be yourself – Don’t worry about putting on a good show. Instead, be honest and, more importantly, be yourself. Be specific and answer only what was asked.

NOT TO DO

1. Don’t prepare your children to say certain things: This never ends well. If the evaluator suspects that you have taught your children to say specific things, they will suspect that you are hiding something or trying to take advantage of the system.

two. Do not speak ill of your ex-wife – Avoid any opportunity to allow yourself to speak negatively about your ex. The professional has heard it all before and only shows that they are not ready to cooperate.

3. Don’t go against court orders – Lastly, be very cautious throughout the evaluation process to make sure you don’t go against court rules or violate parenting or visitation orders.

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