A Child Custody Evaluation in Michigan utilizes the services of a third party such as the Friend of the Court or an independent clinical or forensic psychologist to evaluate the Michigan 12 Michigan best interest of the child factors. The third party makes a report, recommendation or provides testimony based upon the conclusions of the investigation.
Child Custody Evaluation in Michigan Resources
Child Custody Evaluation in Michigan – The Basics.
Most Child Custody Evaluations in Michigan consist of an interview with a Friend of the Court Counselor who makes a recommendation. However, in more complex and contested cases, the evaluation may include psychological testing if done privately. An attorney may want testing to support his/her client’s position. Often times, testing is conducted to rule out or substantiate mental illness, drug or alcohol abuse or other issues which may impact a parents ability to care for a child.
Child Custody Evaluation in Michigan – The Details.
Some of the Michigan 12 best interest of the child factors can be difficult to prove. For example, how do you prove the “moral fitness of the parties” (factor f) or “The mental and physical health of the parties” (factor g)? A comprehensive Child Custody Evaluation attempts to support each Michigan best interest of the child factor with objective testing including psychological testing.
Some of the more common psychological tests utilized in private Michigan Child Custody Evaluations include the following:
Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory: The MMPI-2 is a type of personality test and is used to assess mental illness. This test was developed in the 1930’s at the University of Minnesota and is one of the most researched psychological tests in existence. The test utilizes 567 test items and takes typically 60-90 minutes to complete. This test is typically administered to parents in a custody battle as it is designed for individuals over the age of 18.
Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III: The MCMI-III is another psychological assessment tool. The MCMI-III differs from other personality tests because it directly tests specific disorders from the DSM-5. The DSM-5 is the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental disorders. The DSM-5 serves as the universal authority for the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders.
Rorschach Comprehensive System: The Rorschach test is also known as an inkblot test. Inkblots are presented to the participant and his/her subjective impressions are recorded. This test is often used to compliment the MMPI-2 to confirm or exclude the findings.
The goal of the psychological testing is to provide objective findings to support a particular best interest factor in support of a custody or parenting time case.
Child Custody Evaluations in Michigan include a meeting with the child and an observation of the parent-child relationship.
While there are no psychological tests that can accurately determine if a particular parent is good or bad, the testing can provide supplemental support for or against a client’s position. This is a very important reason why you should speak with us before agreeing to submit (or request)a private Child Custody Evaluation in Michigan.
Articles – Child Custody Evaluations in Michigan
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I have been exclusively practicing divorce and family law in Michigan for over two decades. The Oakland County Divorce attorneys at Findling Law practice statewide. We share the core value of practicing law to help people navigate change in their lives, without compromising principles. We specialize in high socio-economic, high-profile and high-conflict cases, while also working with clients of all backgrounds. We recognize that the most important aspect of the practice of law is the application of the law to your specific circumstances.That is why we provide more free information on divorce and family law than any other Michigan law firm. We want to help you manage your situation. Allow our exceptional legal team to help you navigate the change in your life, without compromising principles.
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