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 Idaho, child custody evaluations are utilized by the court to assist in determining the best interests of the child in custody and visitation matters, typically during divorce or other custody disputes. The evaluation process involves a court-appointed mental health professional, such as a psychologist, who assesses the family situation, the parenting capabilities of each parent, and the needs of the child. The evaluator will conduct interviews, observations, and may use psychological testing to form a comprehensive understanding of the family dynamics. The professional's findings and recommendations are then reported to the court. Idaho's family law statutes and court rules guide this process, ensuring that the child's welfare is the paramount concern. The court is not bound by the evaluator's recommendation but considers it as one of the factors in making a final custody determination.