Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the evaluation process typically take?​

The timeframe can vary depending upon the type of evaluation. For example, forensic psychological evaluations involving just one or both parents are much shorter (2-3 months start to finish) compared to more comprehensive Child Custody Evaluations that involve multiple family members and numerous collateral sources which can take up to 5-6 months from start to finish.

• What should I tell my children about the evaluation process?

This is a very common question. Typically 'less is more' is a good approach. We recommend that children are told that they will be meeting with someone that is going to help understand the family situation and make suggestions on how the family can be better. We recommend that children be told to be as honest as they can as there are no right or wrong answers to how they think or feel. While this answer might not appease some children (particularly older children), this approach shields the children from specific information about the litigation process.

• How many interviews should I expect?

The number of depends upon the type of evaluation. For a psychological evaluation, there are typically a minimum of two separate interviews. For Parental Fitness, Child Custody, and Parental Alienation Evaluations, the child or children are also involved so there will also be parent-child interviews and individual interviews with the child or children depending upon their age.

• How will collateral information be shared?

Collateral information will be shared with the attorneys and Guardian ad Litem, if one is appointed, via a secure, file sharing folder (e.g., Dropbox). ​By using a file sharing folder, there is full transparency about what information the evaluator has received and is reviewing. ​​