What is a child custody evaluation?

A child custody evaluation is an assessment of the family situation that is conducted by a mental health professional to determine the best living arrangement for children in cases where both parents are seeking custody. The evaluation includes examining the current living situation of both parents, the physical and mental health of the parents and children, the parents’ ability to provide for the physical, emotional, and educational needs of the children, and other factors that may affect the children’s well-being. The purpose of the evaluation is to make a recommendation to the court regarding which parent should have primary physical custody and the terms of visitation for the other parent. In Virginia, a court can order a child custody evaluation or either parent can request it. The court will assign an evaluator from the local social services or psychological community who will act as an independent party to review the custody dispute and provide an opinion to the court. The evaluation will include psychological and social assessments, interviews with the parents and children, and possibly home visits. The evaluation process can take several weeks, and the evaluator’s opinion will likely be a major factor in the court’s decision.

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What is a child custody evaluation?

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