Child Custody Evaluations

Here’s what they are…

Once called a “social study,” child custody evaluations are ordered by a judge and conducted by a “specialist licensed by the State of Texas” in a “human services field of study;” the evaluator is not an attorney.

The main goal of a child custody evaluation is for a neutral professional to assess the needs of each child and evaluate how each parent meets those needs, ensuring all the basic requirements under Texas Family Code §107.109 are met.

I understand how stressful this process can feel.

A family separating and going through a divorce is under incredible stress, and even the most well-intentioned parents sometimes can’t see their children’s needs objectively.

Therefore, my goal is to advocate on behalf of your child(ren)’s best interest. I do this by maintaining strict neutrality with all involved parties so that I can provide a non-biased recommendation to the court. I will listen to both parties, review all documents provided to me or obtained by myself, with equal diligence to both sides.

The process can feel intrusive, and I strive to help participants feel safe and heard. However, my responsibility is to ensure that the children’s best interest is being considered.

Once the investigation is concluded…

I will write a report to the court based on the specifics outlined in the order, providing my findings and conclusions along with custody, parenting, and child access recommendations. A copy of the report is provided to both attorneys and filed with the court.

I am currently being supervised for child custody evaluations by Tammi Axelson while I work toward fulfilling the Texas Family Code §107.104 requirements to work independently.

*Child custody evaluations are completed for a flat fee of $4,800, split between both parties unless otherwise specified by a court order.