What is a Best Interests Evaluation?
A best interests evaluation is a court focused psychological assessment designed to address a central question: what arrangement best supports this child’s wellbeing given the current family dynamics. I am typically asked to conduct a best interests evaluation when there are disputes regarding custody, parenting time, or the nature of a child’s relationship with one or both parents. These evaluations may also involve more complex concerns, including parent child contact problems, high conflict family dynamics, or allegations that are affecting the child’s functioning and relationships. My role is to conduct a comprehensive, methodical evaluation and to provide opinions and recommendations that assist the court in making decisions that prioritize the child’s psychological and developmental needs. This work is grounded in multiple sources of information rather than any one person’s
account.
When a Best Interests Evaluation is Appropriate
Best interests evaluations focus on understanding family dynamics, parent-child relationships, and what supports a child’s wellbeing in custody and parenting time decisions.
Because this is a forensic service used for legal decision making, I conduct best interests evaluations only when there is a clear court Order that defines the referral question and scope of the evaluation. I may be retained by one party as a private expert, jointly retained by both parties, or appointed by the court. Regardless of how I am retained, the scope of the evaluation must be clearly defined at the outset.
My Role as the Evaluator
In a best interests evaluation, my role is to provide an independent, professionally grounded assessment. Regardless of the referral source, my opinions are not determined by who retains me. I am not providing therapy, I am not advocating for either parent, and I am not part of either party’s legal team. I do not provide legal advice. My conclusions are based on the totality of the information available, not on any one person’s account. That may
include interviews, observations, records, collateral input, and other relevant data gathered within the scope of the evaluation. When participation is limited or important information is unavailable, I document those limitations and explain how they affect the conclusions that can be drawn.
Process and Structure
Each evaluation is structured around the specific referral questions, but most best interests matters involve a
comprehensive review of multiple sources of information. I begin by reviewing the court order and clarifying the
scope of the evaluation. From there, I typically conduct multiple individual interviews with each parent and the child or children, along with observation of parent child interactions when appropriate. I also review relevant records, which may include prior evaluations, court filings, transcripts, school records, mental health and medical records, and other materials related to the issues being assessed. When authorized and clinically appropriate, I may obtain collateral input from professionals or other individuals involved with the family. Depending on the issues presented, the evaluation may also include in-home parent child observations or psychological testing when clinically indicated. The evaluation is designed to integrate current functioning, relevant history, observed interactions, and information obtained from multiple sources so that my opinions and recommendations are based on a comprehensive understanding of the issues before the court.
Timeline and Expectations
Best interests evaluations are comprehensive and require coordination across multiple sources of information.
Reports are generally completed within approximately three to five months from the start of the evaluation,
depending on scheduling, timely receipt of records, and participant availability. Delays in scheduling, record
production, or participation may extend this timeframe.
Insurance and Fee Structure
Best interests evaluations are considered a forensic service and are not covered by health insurance. Services are
provided on a private pay basis and operate under a retainer model. An initial retainer is required prior to the start of the evaluation, and all time spent on the matter is billed against that retainer. As the retainer is utilized, additional replenishments may be required to continue services. For current rates and retainer requirements, please contact the practice directly.