What Does a Forensic Psychologist Do in a Family Law Case?

Forensic psychologists play a vital role in evaluating parties in domestic disputes, particularly related to divorce cases. They use their expertise to help the court make decisions regarding family services and children. Their role is to conduct evaluations, offer expert testimony, and help with mediation to resolve disputes between parents. In this article, the Rockland County, NY, child custody attorneys at the Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine will discuss the role of forensic psychologists in family court and divorce cases.

Child custody evaluations 

Forensic psychologists play a vital role in conducting child custody evaluations. This includes determining the psychological fitness of parents and the psychological health of children involved in custody disputes. These experts use specific methods, such as interviews, psychological testing, and the review of important documents, to make these decisions. Their evaluations determine suitable custody arrangements, including visiting rights and parenting plans. Their job is to determine what is in the child’s best interests and make decisions that reflect that.

Assessing parental fitness 

Another job of the forensic psychologist is to determine whether or not a parent is fit for the role of parenting. They evaluate the parenting skills of each parent, considering factors such as the parent’s ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their child. They also identify potential risks to the child. Their assessments help the court make decisions that are in the best interests of the child.

Providing expert testimony 

Forensic psychologists also present their findings and recommendations to the judge as expert witnesses. Their job is to explain matters like developmental psychology to laypeople, like the judge, who relies on their assessments to make determinations related to child custody. Their testimony is important for helping the court understand the potential impact of child custody arrangements.

Helping during mediation and negotiation 

Forensic psychologists can also help parents during mediation. Their role is to inform parents of various psychological concepts that can help them reach an accord. Their expertise is pivotal in understanding a developing child’s psychological needs. This can help the parents reach an amicable solution.

Handling abuse allegations 

Sometimes during child custody disputes, one parent will make serious allegations of abuse or neglect against the other parent. Forensic psychologists will use their expertise to determine the veracity of such allegations, using specialized techniques to determine whether or not the allegations are true.

Other family law matters 

Forensic psychologists may be involved in domestic violence cases, elder abuse, or other family law situations where psychological assessments are necessary. Their role is to help the court understand the psychological dynamics of the situation and make appropriate decisions.

Talk to a Rockland County, NY, Child Custody Lawyer Today 

The Rockland County family lawyers at the Law Office of Robert S. Sunshine represent the interests of parents during custody disputes. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing you for court right away.

Source:

psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inside-the-criminal-mind/202012/what-a-forensic-psychologist-does-in-a-child-custody-case