In high-conflict custody disputes, the court may order a child custody evaluation to help determine a parenting plan that serves the best interests of the child. A custody evaluation is conducted by a qualified mental health professional and is designed to assess the needs of each child as well as each parent’s ability to meet those needs.
At our practice, Dr. Nicole Machinski is the only expert who conducts custody evaluations, and she does so only under specific conditions. Before an evaluation can begin, the court must issue an order or stipulation naming Dr. Machinski as the evaluator. This order must clearly outline:
- Each party’s financial responsibility for the evaluation fees
- The individuals or entities authorized to receive the final written report
- Any specific questions or concerns the court would like addressed
If no specific questions are provided, the evaluation will still provide recommendations regarding custodial and parenting time, always with the child’s well-being as the primary focus.
It’s important to understand that Dr. Machinski serves as a neutral evaluator, regardless of which party is responsible for her fee. Her role is not that of a treating therapist but rather an impartial expert who provides the court with a comprehensive, data-informed assessment. This process is not a form of treatment or health service. Instead, it is an objective evaluation meant to guide legal decisions about custody.
Please note that any information disclosed during the evaluation may be included in a final written report submitted to the court. Dr. Machinski may also be called upon to testify in court regarding her findings and professional opinions.
A Child Custody Evaluation Typically Includes:
- Individual interviews with each parent
- Individual interviews with each child
- Parent-child observation sessions in each parent’s home
- Psychological testing
- Collateral interviews (e.g., with teachers, caregivers, or other relevant parties)
- Review of relevant documents
Upon completion, Dr. Machinski will prepare a detailed written report summarizing her findings and recommendations. She is also available to provide expert testimony, as needed.
