What is the role of the custody evaluator?

I just finished reading an excellent article  by Gary Direnfield, MSW, RSW entitled Unraveling Custody/Access Assessments/Evaluations.  In this article Gary provides his reader with a succinct explanation of the role and responsibility of the evaluator as well as explaining when and how custody evaluations come about.  The important take away is that parental action or sometimes, inaction lies at the base of the need to call in a custody evaluator and that always it is best for parents to come to their own parenting decisions rather than place the burden on the Court.  Further, the evaluator is not the decision-maker, that is the role for the judge.  Instead, the role of the evaluator is to gather facts and then make recommendations to the court regarding the parents' relative parenting strengths and weaknesses in light of the specific emotional, developmental and other such needs of their children.

Happy New Year!

2013 was not a blogging year for me.  2014 will be different as I set the intention to post a new article at least once per month.  If there are topics you would like for me to address please send your suggestions to me at mnm@milamidol.com with the Subject Line: Blog suggestions.

Happy Father's Day

In an article in the June 14, 2012 New York Times, Dominick Zarrillo's column about himself and his son epitomizes the essence of a father's love for his son.  I hope you will read the articel and be inspired just as i was.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads and the Dad-to-Be!