Help with a Child Custody Evaluation

When a divorce involves children, the proceedings can become difficult and emotional for both parents. Sometimes, parents can come to a custody agreement quickly and easily on their own, but they often need help from a family lawyer for mediation and guidance.

A family lawyer can help you determine a fair custody agreement, and we can help with a child custody evaluation if one has been ordered. A child custody evaluation can help determine the best interests of the child and ensure an agreement is reached between the two parents.

Who Orders a Child Custody Evaluation?

In California, the judge can order a child custody evaluation, also known as a 730 evaluation, when the best interests of your children are being called into question. If the judge believes there may be some cause for concern regarding one or both parents, an evaluation can be ordered.

One or both parents can also ask for an evaluation if they believe there are concerns regarding the parenting practices of the other parent. Some of the concerns assessed in a child custody evaluation could include the following:

• Substance abuse issues
• Mental health issues
• Concerns about possible child abuse
• One parent wants to move out of state, but the other parent objects
• Questionable parenting practices that could negatively impact the child
• The parents can’t reach a custody agreement
• There are questions regarding the children’s upbringing

When an Evaluation Is Ordered, Who Evaluates?

After a judge has ordered a child custody evaluation, he or she will also assign an evaluator. In many cases the two parties’ attorneys will help prepare a list of evaluators for the judge to pick from, or the two parties can choose an evaluator on their own.

Either way, the evaluators could be any of the following:

• Psychologist or psychiatrist
• Qualified social worker
• Marriage and family therapist

Contact a Child Custody Lawyer

If you need help with a child custody evaluation, call a family lawyer from the Law Office of Laurence J. Brock. We will ensure that you are represented fairly and that your children’s best interests are put above all else. Call us at 909-466-7661 or complete our contact form below to schedule a free consultation.