7
Apr

For anyone who has ever been in a highly contested custody dispute, often time there are many different perspectives that the court has to balance, including those of the minor children. Where there are disputed issues regarding parental cooperation, mental health, addiction, neglect, abuse, or the safety and welfare of the children, the court generally requires third-party’s investigations, reports, and recommendations. The method selected by the court to assist in its finding and decision-making process depends largely on the facts and circumstances of the case, the age of the children, as well as the family’s dynamics among others.
Minor’s Counsel– The court can appoint a minor’s counsel to represent the minor children in the custody proceeding. The MC will investigate and make a report to the court, which can include the children’s preferences. The MC often time does not have any professional training in mental health evaluation and treatments, and thus may communicate with the treating therapists of the parties or the children.
Parenting Plan Assessment I and II– These are assessments conducted by mental health professionals employed by the court. PPA I costs $975 in Los Angeles County and is ordered when the court determines that there are one or two narrowly defined issues about which the court requires additional information and clinical judgment. PPA II costs $1,950 in Los Angeles County. PPA II is a two-day assessment and is ordered when the court finds that there are more than two narrowly defined issues regarding custody/visitation. The court staff who conducted the assessment will testify on the second day of the assessment.
Child Custody Evaluation Under Evid. Code §730– a custody evaluation is completed by a mental health professional who is neutral and has specialized experience and knowledge in dealing with divorces and the impact it can have on children. The court can order that the parties and the children undergo a focused evaluation paid by the parties. The evaluator will then testify and/or submit a written report/recommendations to the court to assist the court in understanding the issues in a highly contested custody dispute.

To further understand what may happen in your custody case, contact our office for a complimentary 10-minute consultation.  (310) 212-7109