Why was a child custody evaluation/adoption report needed in this case?

Both a child custody evaluation and adoption reports are full civil investigations ordered by the court in accordance with protocol detailed in the Texas Family Code and the Texas Administrative Code.  The reports are intended to assist the court in making a determination for what is in the best interests of the subject child(ren).

 

How long will the evaluation take?

The reports will usually take 90 days, with full client cooperation. 

Delays could include:

• Late fee payments,

• Complex issues,

• Missing appointments, and

• Criminal or CPS involvement;

 

How long are interviews with the child custody evaluator?

Please plan on 1.5  to 2 hours.  Special circumstances may require longer times. The subject child(ren) interviews are typically about one-half hour.

 

Who all must participate in the investigative process?

All adults and children in the home must be interviewed. All adults will require background checks.

Additionally, minor and adult children of a party who do not reside in the home must be interviewed.

 

What happens if a party is uncooperative?

If a party does not pay the fee payment, the fee can be paid by the other party, allowing the process to proceed. In the event that a client is non-cooperative, the attorneys of record and the court will be apprised of the situation. The investigator will act upon the direction of the court or counsel.

 

Does the client receive a copy of the written report?

In the instance of a child custody evaluation, the report is filed with the court and distributed to the attorneys of record and pro-se clients. 

An adoption report is furnished to the prospective adoptive parents at the time of filing in addition to the attorneys of record.

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