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Child custody

evaluation

A child custody evaluation is a process by which the court appoints a mental health professional (such as a psychologist) who evaluates both parents and the child and makes a recommendation to the court regarding custody and visitation arrangements in the best interest of the child. Child custody evaluations are common in divorce and other child custody litigation.

In Iowa, a child custody evaluation is a tool used by the court to assist in making decisions about custody and visitation arrangements that are in the best interest of the child. This process involves a court-appointed mental health professional, often a psychologist, who conducts a thorough assessment of the family situation. The evaluator will consider various factors, including each parent's ability to care for the child, the child's relationship with each parent, and the child's needs. The evaluator's findings are compiled into a report, which includes recommendations for custody and visitation. The court may consider this report when making its final decision. Iowa law emphasizes the child's best interests as the paramount concern in custody determinations, and the evaluation is one of the tools used to discern those interests. It's important to note that while the evaluator's recommendations are influential, they are not binding on the court, which retains the ultimate authority to decide custody matters.

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Child custody

evaluation

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Iowa State Code

Iowa State Code

Child custody

evaluation

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