A relocation or removal evaluation is conducted when a parent wants to move to another part of the state or out of state. These evaluations are similar to parenting time/best interest evaluations but they focus on how moving away will affect the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent. Whether retained by one parent or mutually agreed upon, my role as an evaluator is to remain neutral.
What is a child custody relocation or removal evaluation?
These evaluations include interviews with both parents, the child/ren, and, in some cases, other family members, such as step-parents. All the adults are extensively interviewed and may be administered psychological tests and parenting questionnaires. The children are also interviewed (depending upon their age) and participate in the parent-child observations.
What factors are considered in a child custody relocation or removal evaluation?
Document review
As part of the evaluation, I review relevant documents — sent by the attorneys and other people who know the family — such as:
- Court pleadings
- Certifications
- School records
- Police reports
Additional considerations
Collateral contacts, such as friends, family members, health care providers, and teachers, are not contacted unless a release is signed. In some cases, allegations of substance abuse or domestic violence arise which need to be addressed.
Who does child custody relocation or removal evaluations?
Like child custody evaluations, relocation or removal evaluations are typically conducted by a forensic psychologist.
How do you form your recommendations?
I integrate all of the information gathered during the procedure with the social science literature to formulate my recommendations. The recommendations are made according to the best interest standard and other factors, such as:
- The child’s relationships with other family members
- The distance of the move
- The moving parent’s willingness to facilitate the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent
These evaluations typically take three to four months to complete, but it depends on the cooperation of the parties.
Where can I do a child custody relocation or removal evaluation in NJ?
I conduct child custody relocation and removal evaluations in my office in Livingston, New Jersey. Contact me to schedule an evaluation.