When parents cannot agree on legal custody, physical custody, or parenting time, Indiana courts have several tools available to help determine what arrangement best supports the child’s well‑being. One of the most significant of these tools is a custody evaluation. Although not required in every case, custody evaluations can play a pivotal role when disputes are complex, high‑conflict, or involve concerns about a parent’s ability to meet a child’s needs.
What Is a Custody Evaluation?
A custody evaluation is an in‑depth assessment conducted by a mental health professional—typically a psychologist or other qualified evaluator—who is trained to analyze family dynamics, parenting capacity, and the needs of the child. Unlike a brief investigation or simple interview, a custody evaluation is comprehensive.
It generally includes:
– Individual interviews with each parent
– Interviews with the child (if age‑appropriate)
– Parent‑child observations
– Review of records, such as school, medical, and counseling records
– Collateral contacts, including teachers, therapists, relatives, or caregivers
– Psychological testing, when appropriate
When Can a Custody Evaluation Be Used in Indiana?
Indiana law gives courts broad discretion to order a custody evaluation when it will assist in determining the best interests of the child.
Common situations include:
- High‑Conflict Parenting Disputes
- Allegations of Mental Health Concerns
- Concerns About Parenting Capacity or Safety
- Complex Family Dynamics
- When the Child’s Wishes Are a Factor
Who Requests a Custody Evaluation?
A custody evaluation may be ordered by the court or requested by a parent.
Why Custody Evaluations Matter
Custody evaluations help the court understand the child’s environment, relationships, and needs and are essential when the court must sort through conflicting accounts or complicated circumstances.
Child custody cases can be a trying time for individuals. These types of proceedings are extremely fact sensitive, leading to confusion among many. Not to mention, these are very personal and emotional matters for people. When issues become so serious that court intervention is necessary, it may be helpful to seek the assistance of an attorney to help navigate through the process. Dixon & Moseley, P.C. attorneys practice throughout the State of Indiana and understand the significance of child custody cases and planning for the same. This blog post is written by Dixon & Moseley, P.C. advocates and is not intended as specific legal advice or a solicitation for services. It is an advertisement.
