FAQs

 

1. Since the Family Violence Risk Assessment does not draft a Parenting Plan, will my client have to pay for a separate Child Custody Evaluation?
The purpose of the Family Violence Risk Assessment is to determine whether allegations of abuse are in fact true. Once these allegations are substantiated or unsubstantiated, determining the parenting plan is largely logistical. Once we have determined the potential risk, the attorneys or mental health professionals can better determine the appropriate Parenting Plan.

2. How long will a Family Violence Risk Assessment likely take, from beginning to submission of the report?
Most Risk Assessments are completed within 4 to 6 weeks. The key to successful and meaningful forensic interviews involving children is that the information is current. Our approach is different than a child custody evaluation in that our interviews are not completed in one hour increments. We believe it is of the utmost importance to take the time necessary in the initial interview to get a complete statement, whether it takes one, five, or ten hours; therefore reducing the number of appointments and the time it takes to reach an accurate and complete determination.

3. Is the Family Violence Risk Assessment report subject to the same confidentiality provisions that currently apply to a Child Custody Evaluation report?
Yes, the Family Violence Risk Assessment report is subject to the same confidentiality provisions as a Child Custody evaluation report.

4. Would a Family Violence Risk Assessment be ordered through stipulation of the parties, court order, at the behest of the Child Custody Evaluator, or any of the above?
Any of the above. The Family Violence Risk Assessment has been ordered by Family Judges under evidence code instead of a Child Custody Evaluation. The FVRA could also be stipulated by all of the attorneys in the case. Child Custody Evaluators could also request the FVRA in conjunction with their Evaluation when allegations of Family Violence or Abuse arise. Once a child custody case becomes high risk including allegations of child abuse, child sexual abuse, child porn, etc., our intent would be to provide answers to the court quickly and accurately. If there is criminal behavior, we make certain the crimes are reported and prosecuted. The FVRA will also eliminate the common "he said, she said" accusations often involved with child custody cases. There would be more than one person hearing the statements for accountability purposes.