How Forensic Psychological Evaluations Support Parental Fitness Determinations in Custody Cases
Family courts often request parental fitness evaluations when concerns arise regarding a parent’s ability to safely and effectively care for their child. A forensic psychologist provides an objective assessment of parenting strengths, challenges, mental health concerns, and the child’s needs.
These evaluations typically include clinical interviews, psychological testing, observation of parent-child interactions, and collateral information from professionals or family members. The goal is to assist the court in determining the arrangement that best serves the child’s interests.
Parental fitness evaluations can clarify whether mental health conditions, substance use, or other challenges impact parenting capacity. If you are a family law attorney, referring your client for a forensic psychological evaluation may provide the court with essential information to make informed custody decisions. Learn more about these evaluations from the American Psychological Association's Guidelines for Child Custody Evaluations.
