Sometimes before deciding child custody and visitation, the court may order a psychological evaluation by a qualified forensic psychologist. A so-called "Forensic Evaluation" is different from ordinary therapy. A forensic psychologist is one with specialized training or expertise at evaluating the psychological make-up of the parties, and informing the court. Therapists, who provide counseling and treatment, are seldom used in this role.

Psychological testing is combined interviews, to determine the personalities and interpersonal history leading to the break-up. The findings and recommendations made by the psychologist are confidential.

The court is not bound by a psychologists recommendations. A psychologists training does not necessarily include the complex issues of law that surrounding child custody or visitation determination. Nevertheless, some courts accept the psychologists recommendations without question - unless you take the time, and make the effort to question the psychologists findings. It is therefore necessary to fully educate a forensic psychologist with all of the necessary information before their study is completed.

Forensic Evaluators are not finders of fact, but consultants appointed to help the court understand the issues to be decided. The ultimate decision is the courts responsibility, which cannot be delegated.

We are well suited to assist you at figuring out which information may exist that needs to be provided to your forensic psychological evaluator, to the extent permitted by the rules.