When parents cannot agree on custody or parenting time arrangements, Michigan courts may order a custody evaluation to help determine what arrangement is in the child’s best interests. Conducted by a licensed mental health professional such as a psychologist, Friend of the Court or a social worker, this evaluation takes into account the overall family dynamic and provides recommendations to the court regarding custody and parenting time. Because the evaluator’s findings can significantly impact the outcome of a custody case, understanding the process and preparing appropriately is critical.

The custody evaluation process typically involves several meetings and may take weeks or even months to complete depending on the complexity of the case. Evaluators generally interview both parents, meet with the child or children and observe parent child interactions. In most cases, evaluators conduct home visits to better understand the environment each parent provides.

  • During the evaluation, parents are usually asked questions about:
  • Parenting styles and discipline methods
  • Daily routines and caregiving responsibilities
  • Communication with the other parent
  • Involvement in the child’s education and activities
  • Concerns regarding custody or parenting time

Children are often interviewed separately in a neutral and comfortable setting so they can speak openly about their experiences and relationships with each parent. Documentation such as school records, medical records, counseling records and other paperwork related to the child’s well being is taken into account during this process. Depending on the circumstances, other individuals involved in the child’s life such as teachers, doctors or therapists may be contacted by evaluators for additional information.

What Custody Evaluators Look For

The primary goal of a custody evaluation is to determine which custody arrangement best supports the child’s emotional, physical and developmental needs. Evaluators carefully examine each parent’s ability to provide a stable and healthy environment for the child. Factors such as emotional stability, communication skills and consistency in parenting are primary considerations for evaluators, as well as each parent’s level of involvement in the child’s daily life.

Evaluators also pay close attention to how each parent handles co parenting and whether they encourage a healthy relationship between the child and the other parent. Michigan courts generally favor parents who demonstrate cooperation, flexibility and a willingness to put the child’s needs first.

Behaviors that will negatively affect an evaluator’s recommendations include:

  • Hostility toward the other parent
  • Attempts to manipulate the child
  • Substance abuse concerns
  • Failure to comply with court orders
  • Dishonesty or refusal to cooperate during the evaluation process

How to Prepare for a Custody Evaluation

For parents, preparing for a custody evaluation requires their focus to be on the child’s best interests and to actively demonstrate respectful, cooperative behavior in their interactions. Evaluators closely examine how parents communicate, follow court orders and remain involved in the child’s education and daily life activities. Parents should avoid speaking negatively about the other parent or attempting to influence the child’s opinions, as courts generally favor the parent who encourages healthy co-parenting relationships.

It is also important to prepare clearly organized documentation, including school records, medical records, parenting schedules and communication logs between parents. Honesty and consistency in this regard typically has a positive impact on the evaluator’s assessment. Because these evaluations have a significant impact on custody decisions, working with an experienced Michigan family law attorney specializing in custody disputes is important in order for parents to have the best possible outcome.