A successful child custody evaluation requires preparation
While it is always preferable for divorcing parents to reach a child custody agreement between themselves or with the aid of a mediator, sometimes the situation escalates to another level. And if you are participating in a contested custody case, you may be required to take part in a child custody evaluation as part of the resolution process.
Certainly, it can be daunting to speak with someone who is assessing your ability to care for your child, and you want to be sure that you represent yourself in the best possible light. But if you take the time to prepare for the evaluation, you stand a much better chance of achieving your custody goals.
So what sorts of things should you focus on prior to your big meeting? Well, you want to make sure that you clearly remember important details about your relationship with the child’s other parent. In particular, you want to be able to tell the evaluator such specifics as the date on which the relationship became serious.
You have to be able to discuss any troubling facets of the relationship and acknowledge if similar dynamics still exist. And you want to demonstrate having a clear understanding of the terms of your existing parenting plan.
In regard to your demeanor, you want the evaluator to perceive you as being flexible, reasonable and articulate. Telling the truth and being cooperative with the evaluator is also very important. And while it is quite possible you may become emotional during the evaluation, you are best served by remaining calm and in control.
This is only a brief synopsis of what you can do to prepare for your child custody evaluation. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through the evaluation process and help you get ready to show that you are willing and able to handle the responsibilities required to care for your child.