Who Are Potential Child Experts in the Divorce Process?

 Posted on December 08, 2022 in Divorce

A huge number and variety of studies exist that illustrate the negative impact a divorce can have on children. Children who are subject to parental conflict, domestic abuse, or neglect during divorce often suffer from negative lifelong consequences, including higher rates of criminal behavior, teen pregnancy, and high school dropout rates. However, with the proper attention and care, parents can prevent their children from being exposed to the most negative aspects of divorce. While you can never control or predict your child’s reaction entirely, there are steps you can take to minimize their difficulties. Here are three experts who can help you manage child-related issues during a divorce. 

Guardian ad Litem

Some very high-conflict divorces require children to have legal representatives of their own. If a guardian ad litem is assigned to your case, or if you hire a guardian ad litem on your own, it is important to understand their role. A guardian ad litem will interview you, your child, your child’s other parent, plus any other adult who can provide helpful information. Furthermore, they will investigate any accusations of child abuse or neglect. They may create a report for a judge or testify in court as to what they think is in the best interests of the child and will advocate on behalf of the child for their needs to be met.

Child Psychologist

It can be difficult to know what your child is thinking and feeling during divorce. After all, their behavior will not necessarily be indicative of their inner emotions; lashing out violently at school, for example, may really be a reflection of inner turmoil and panic at the idea of having separated parents. A child psychologist can help you and your child deal with complex emotions and behaviors stemming from anxiety about the divorce process, offering insight and solutions. 

Custody Evaluator

Similar to a guardian ad litem, a custody evaluator’s job is to investigate a child’s situation and make a recommendation to a judge for a parenting arrangement that would be in the child’s best interests. Unlike a guardian ad litem, however, a custody evaluator does not legally represent the child and may not even be an attorney; custody evaluators are often clinical psychologists who are specifically trained in carefully examining divorce cases. The custody evaluator’s job is to be a neutral evaluator in a given divorce case and make sure that no stone goes unturned when assessing what a child needs and what a parent can provide. 

Contact an Oakland County Divorce Attorney

Divorce is challenging and wanting to protect your children during your divorce is only natural. To make sure you have the experts you need helping you keep your family safe, contact a Farmington Hills, MI divorce attorney with Elkouri Heath, PLC. Whether it is resolving issues of child custody, child support, or anything else, we are here and ready to help. Call us at 248-344-9700 today to schedule a free consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/blog/child-custody-evaluation