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 Utah, a child custody evaluation is a formal assessment conducted by a court-appointed mental health professional to assist the court in determining the best interests of the child in custody and visitation matters. This process is often utilized in cases of divorce or other child custody disputes. The evaluator will typically observe interactions between the child and each parent, review relevant documents, and may interview the child and parents. The evaluator's report will include recommendations for custody and parenting time arrangements that prioritize the child's welfare. Utah law, specifically Utah Code Section 30-3-10.1, outlines the factors that courts must consider in determining the best interests of the child, which the evaluator's recommendations will take into account. The court is not bound by the evaluator's recommendation but will give it considerable weight in making a final custody determination.