If you’re in the middle of a custody dispute and a custody evaluation has been ordered, you’re probably feeling anxious. That’s normal. Most parents have never been through one, and the idea of a stranger assessing your parenting can feel invasive.
But custody evaluations exist to help the court make better decisions for your child. The more you understand about how they work, the better prepared you’ll be.
At Raza Family Law Solutions, we’ve helped parents across St. Louis prepare for and get through custody evaluations. Below, we’ll walk you through what actually happens, who’s involved, and how to put your best foot forward.
What Is a Custody Evaluation?
A custody evaluation is an in-depth investigation into your family’s situation, conducted by a qualified professional. The evaluator’s job is to gather information about both parents, the child, and the family dynamic, then make recommendations to the court about custody and parenting time.
Under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 452.375, Missouri courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child.
When parents can’t agree on a custody arrangement, or when there are concerns about a child’s safety or well-being, the court may order an evaluation to get an objective, professional perspective.
The evaluator’s report carries significant weight. Judges rely heavily on these recommendations when making their final custody decisions.
Who Conducts the Evaluation?
Custody evaluations are typically conducted by a licensed mental health professional, most often a forensic psychologist with specialized training in family dynamics and child development.
The evaluator is selected for their neutrality. They don’t represent either parent. Their job is to look at the full picture and make a recommendation that serves the child, not to take sides.
In some cases, the court appoints the evaluator directly. In others, both parties agree on one. Either parent can also request that the court order an evaluation if they believe it would help resolve contested custody issues.
When Does the Court Order a Custody Evaluation?
Not every custody case involves an evaluation. Courts tend to order them when:
- Parents are deeply divided on custody and can’t reach agreement
- There are allegations of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence
- One or both parents have a history of substance abuse or mental health concerns
- There are questions about a parent’s fitness or the stability of their home
- The case involves high conflict and the court needs an objective assessment
- A child has special needs that require careful consideration of the parenting arrangement
If your case is relatively straightforward and both sides are cooperating, an evaluation may not be necessary. But if things are contentious, expect the possibility.
What Happens During the Evaluation Process?
The evaluation process typically unfolds over several weeks and involves multiple steps. Here’s what you can generally expect.
Individual Interviews With Each Parent
The evaluator will meet with each parent separately, usually more than once. These interviews cover your parenting history, your relationship with the child, your concerns about the other parent, and your vision for the custody arrangement. Expect personal questions about your mental health, substance use, employment, and home life.
Interviews With the Child
Depending on the child’s age, the evaluator will also speak with your child. For younger children, this may involve observation during play. For older children and teenagers, the evaluator may ask direct questions about their feelings, preferences, and daily life with each parent.
The evaluator is trained to identify coached responses. Don’t tell your child what to say. Let them speak for themselves.
Home Visits
The evaluator may visit each parent’s home to observe the living environment. They’re looking at basic safety and stability: Is the home clean and appropriate for a child? Does the child have their own space? Is the environment calm and organized?
This isn’t an inspection. They’re not checking whether your baseboards are spotless. They want to see that the child’s basic needs are being met in a safe setting.
Psychological Testing
In many evaluations, both parents undergo some form of psychological testing. This might include standardized assessments that measure personality traits, parenting attitudes, and emotional functioning. The results help the evaluator form a more complete picture of each parent’s strengths and areas of concern.
Collateral Contacts and Record Reviews
The evaluator will also speak with people who know your family, including teachers, pediatricians, therapists, and childcare providers. They’ll review relevant records like medical files, school reports, therapy notes, police reports, and any prior court filings or CPS reports.
What Does the Evaluator’s Report Include?
After completing the evaluation, the evaluator prepares a written report for the court and both parties.
The report typically covers:
- A summary of all interviews, observations, and testing results
- An assessment of each parent’s strengths and concerns
- An evaluation of the child’s needs and emotional well-being
- Recommendations for legal and physical custody arrangements
- A proposed parenting time schedule
- Suggestions for additional services like counseling or co-parenting classes
The report is a recommendation, not the final word. The judge makes the ultimate decision, but evaluator reports carry significant weight.
How to Prepare for a Custody Evaluation
You can’t control the outcome, but you can control how you show up. Here’s how to put yourself in the best position.
- Be honest. Evaluators are trained to detect deception. Don’t exaggerate your strengths or the other parent’s flaws. Credibility matters more than perfection.
- Be cooperative. Show up on time. Return calls and emails promptly. Provide any requested documents without delay. Resistance or avoidance sends the wrong signal.
- Focus on the child. Everything you say and do should center on your child’s needs. Avoid making the evaluation about your conflict with the other parent.
- Don’t coach your child. This is one of the fastest ways to damage your credibility. If the evaluator senses that a child has been coached, it reflects poorly on the coaching parent.
- Keep your home ready. You don’t need a perfect house, but make sure it’s safe, clean, and shows that your child has what they need.
- Talk to your attorney. Your family law attorney can help you understand what to expect, review any concerns you have, and prepare you for the types of questions you’ll face.
How Long Does a Custody Evaluation Take?
Most custody evaluations in the St. Louis area take four to twelve weeks, depending on the case’s complexity, the evaluator’s schedule, and how quickly both parents cooperate.
Delays often happen when a parent is slow to schedule interviews, fails to provide requested documents, or doesn’t respond to the evaluator’s outreach. Staying on top of deadlines helps keep things moving.
How Much Does a Custody Evaluation Cost?
Custody evaluations in Missouri generally range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the scope and the evaluator’s fees. The court may split the cost between both parents or order one parent to pay a larger share.
It’s a significant expense, but a thorough evaluation often resolves disputes that would otherwise drag on through a lengthy trial.
Prepare for Your Custody Evaluation With Confidence
A custody evaluation can feel high-stakes because it is. The evaluator’s report will shape how the court views your case and your parenting. But it’s not something to fear if you’re a good parent who’s willing to be open and honest.
At Raza Family Law Solutions, we guide St. Louis parents through every stage of the custody evaluation process. From preparation to responding to the findings, we’ll make sure you understand what’s happening and that your side is heard.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your custody case and start preparing for what’s ahead.