Child Custody & Parenting Plan Evaluations
Comprehensive assessments to support the best interests of children in family court matters
What is a Child Custody Evaluation?
A Child Custody or Parenting Plan Evaluation is a comprehensive examination of the family system. Courts often recommend these evaluations when the parents cannot agree on custody, and the Court requires more information prior to rendering an order.
A specially trained, licensed mental health professional conducts these evaluations, as a neutral third party. Often these professionals are referred to as 730 or 3111 Experts. These numbers correspond to the legal codes which describe the specific type of evaluation that has been ordered.
Types of Evaluations
Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes recommendations for custody and a parenting plan, often including vacation and holiday schedules. Takes approximately 6 months to complete.
Brief Focused Assessment
A deep look at one specific issue (e.g., school placement, substance abuse concerns). Includes recommendations only about the specific issue being examined.
The Evaluation Process
Comprehensive evaluations involve interviews of the child(ren), parents, and other significant family members. Therapists, teachers, medical providers, and others may also be interviewed if they have information which could be helpful to the evaluator.
In addition, there are home visits to the parents, observations between the parents and children, and a comprehensive review of legal documents regarding the Court history up until the point of the evaluation. Medical, educational and other reports may also be reviewed if relevant. Psychological testing can also be ordered if there are concerns about mental health issues or substance abuse of the parents.
The goal of the Custody/Parenting Plan Evaluation is to make recommendations which are in the best interest of the child(ren) involved. The Evaluator makes recommendations to the Court, which the Court carefully considers when making the final Custody/Parenting Plan orders.
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Contact Information
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Location
333 Estudillo Avenue, Suite 211
San Leandro, CA 94577
Shari Unitan, LMFT
Empowering families through connection and clinical expertise.
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