Family law
What is a custody evaluation?
Quick answer
A custody evaluation is an in-depth assessment by a neutral professional, often a psychologist or trained evaluator, who studies a family and makes recommendations about a parenting arrangement that would serve the children. Courts use it in harder, contested cases.
Last updated June 2026
Watch this explained
What a custody evaluation is
When a custody evaluation happens
A judge usually orders a custody evaluation in contested cases where there are serious disputes or concerns, such as questions about a parent's mental health, substance use, or the children's safety. It is not routine in every case.
The names differ by state. Some places call it a custody evaluation, others a parenting evaluation or a forensic evaluation, and the specific rules for who can conduct one are set by each state. The general purpose is the same: give the court an independent, professional read on the family.
What the evaluator looks at
An evaluator typically interviews both parents, often observes each parent with the children, and may visit each home. They commonly review records such as school, medical, and court documents, and in some cases use psychological testing.
They are trying to understand the children's needs, each parent's strengths and limits, the relationship between the children and each parent, and any safety concerns. The focus stays on the children rather than on which parent is more likeable.
How the report is used
The evaluator usually produces a written report with findings and recommendations about custody and parenting time. Judges give these reports significant weight, but the report is a recommendation, not the decision. The judge still rules, and both parents generally have a chance to respond to it.
Whether the evaluator testifies, and how the report is shared, varies by state and county, so confirm the local procedure rather than assuming.
How to prepare and what it costs
Cooperate fully, be honest, and keep the focus on the children. Show up on time, follow through on what the evaluator asks for, and bring specific, factual records rather than broad accusations. Trying to coach the children or stage situations tends to backfire.
Custody evaluations can be expensive, and who pays varies. In some cases the parents split the cost, in others one parent pays or the court allocates it. Because the amounts and rules differ by state and provider, ask the court or your attorney what to expect before one is ordered.
Free tools
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and local rules vary and change. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.