Parenting can be challenging under the best of circumstances, but it can be even more difficult during and after a divorce. If you and the other parent can’t agree on custody arrangements, you will like have to go through a custody evaluation. The process helps make decisions about parental responsibilities and parenting time. Knowing what to expect can make the process less intimidating and help you fight for your legal rights.
At Kulerski & Cornelison, our team serves families DuPage and Cook counties. We help with custody disputes both during and after your divorce. We know how important your children are to you, and want to help fight for your rights as a parent. Schedule your consultation to learn about how we can help.
What Is a Custody Evaluation in DuPage County?
A custody evaluation is a type of assessment. It is conduct by a psychiatrist or a licensed psychologist. The evaluator will consider things like each parent’s:
- Mental health
- Communication style
- Parenting abilities
- Disciplinary actions
- Home environment
- History of abuse or neglect
- Addiction or drug use
- Other relevant information
The goal is to provide the court with an objective report that recommends a custody arrangement aligned with the child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs.
When Is a Custody Evaluation Ordered?
Custody evaluations are typically ordered when:
- Parents cannot agree on a parenting plan
- There are allegations of abuse, neglect, or substance use
- One parent argues the other parent is unfit
- Mediation doesn’t solve the problems
The court may appoint an evaluator on its own or in response to a motion filed by either party.
What Happens During the Custody Evaluation?
The evaluation process generally includes:
1. Interviews with Each Parent
The evaluator will meet with each parent individually to discuss:
- Parenting history
- Level of involvement
- Mental health
- Emotional stability
- Views on the child’s needs
- Child development
- Concerns about the other parent
2. Observation of Parent-Child Interactions
The custody evaluator will look at each parent and their interactions with the child/children. They prefer to see these interactions where you normally would do so, such as at home. They look at your communication style, how you discipline, and more.
3. Child Interviews
The evaluator might choose to speak directly with the child. Especially if they are old enough, the evaluator might consider their preferences and talk about the relationship they have with each parent.
4. Home Visits
Evaluators often visit each parent’s home. They look at:
- Safety of the home
- Its cleanliness
- Suitability for the child’s needs
- Who lives in the home
5. Other Contacts in the Child’s Life
An evaluator might also talk to other people connected to your child’s life. This might include their family members, teaches, doctors, and more.
6. Psychological Testing
Evaluators might use psychological testing to determine how the child is doing, learn more about their personality, or test the parents to determine fitness.
What Happens After the Evaluation?
When the evaluation is done and over with, the custody evaluator puts together a written report. It summaries all of their findings and recommendations. The evaluator will then give this report to the court and share it with both parties.
Often, the report includes:
- A proposed parenting schedule
- Allocation of decision-making responsibilities
- Recommendations for therapy
- Whether supervision is suggested
- Other interventions
Judges give significant weight to these reports when making final custody determinations.
How Should I Prepare for a Custody Evaluation in Illinois?
To get ready for your custody evaluation:
- Be honest
- Cooperate with the evaluator
- Focus on your child’s needs
- Avoid unnecessary criticism of the other parent
- Keep a clean, safe home environment
- Avoid coaching your child or telling them what to say
- Follow all court orders
- Be timely in all responses or expectations
Be Prepared for an Illinois Custody Evaluation in DuPage County
A custody evaluation can seem intimidating, but it is really designed to protect children. Complying with the process and following your attorney’s advice can make the whole thing simpler and more effective at protecting your kids.
At Kulerski & Cornelison, our family law attorneys are ready to help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.