Custody Evaluations and PA Court-Ordered Assessments

Should Pennsylvania parents disagree about custody arrangements, a court may order a custody evaluation. These evaluations are especially common in high-conflict cases, where disagreements over parenting time, decision-making, or a child’s well-being are intense.

It’s important to understand the process if you are facing a custody evaluation in PA or NJ. A Bucks County family attorney can share conflict-management strategies with you and help you protect your relationship with your child.

What Custody Evaluations Involve

A custody evaluation is an in-depth assessment performed by a mental health professional, often a psychologist, appointed by the court. The goal is to provide the judge with objective information about what custody arrangement serves the best interests of the child.

Evaluations can include several components:

• Psychological assessments. Both parents, and sometimes the children, may undergo psychological testing to evaluate emotional stability, parenting capacity, and interpersonal dynamics.
• The evaluator will interview each parent individually, and often together with the children, to understand the family’s relationships and any areas of conflict.
• Home studies. The evaluator may visit each parent’s home to assess the living environment, safety, and suitability for raising the child.
• Collateral contacts. Teachers, doctors, caregivers, or other third parties may be contacted to provide additional insight into the child’s needs and each parent’s involvement.

At the end of the evaluation, the professional provides a written report with recommendations. While judges are not required to follow these recommendations, they often carry significant weight.

How to Avoid Undesirable Outcomes

Custody evaluations can feel intrusive and stressful, and escalating conflict only makes the process harder, for both parents and children. Ways to avoid worsening the situation include keeping discussions and actions centered on what is best for your child, rather than personal grievances with your co-parent.

Additionally, even if tensions are high, be respectful and cooperative during interviews, home visits, and interactions with the evaluator. Refrain from criticizing the other parent in front of your child or the individual evaluating your case. Negative comments can reflect poorly on your parenting. If the evaluator suggests parenting classes, counseling, or other resources, showing a willingness to cooperate demonstrates commitment to your child’s well-being.

These steps won’t eliminate conflict, but they can reduce the perception that one parent is unwilling to cooperate, an important factor in custody decisions.

If you are entering the custody evaluation process, an experienced Bucks County family attorney can explain what to expect at each stage as well as help you prepare for interviews and home studies. They can advocate for you in court, where the evaluator’s report will be reviewed, too.

Depending on the evaluator, the process may involve psychological testing, home studies, and interviews designed to uncover what arrangement best supports the child. While you may not be excited about it, staying focused on your child’s needs and working with an attorney means you navigate the evaluation with confidence.

Were you recently informed of the possibility of a custody evaluation? Share your hopes and concerns with the talented attorneys at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Call 215-515-2604 to schedule a confidential consultation.