When parents face a contested custody case, especially in high-asset divorces, a custody evaluator plays an important role in determining what is best for the children.
Emotions often run high, and both parents often have significant financial resources to argue their cases.
What is a custody evaluator?
A custody evaluator is a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or social worker, appointed by the court to assess the family situation. They conduct in-depth evaluations of both parents, the children, and the living conditions. This may include interviews, observation of parent-child interactions, and interviews with other significant individuals in the children’s lives, such as teachers or family members.
How does a custody evaluator impact high-asset divorces?
In high-asset divorces, where complex financial and emotional issues arise, the custody evaluator’s role becomes even more necessary. Wealthy parents often have more at stake, including concerns about how their financial status could affect custody decisions.
The evaluator must remain neutral and focus on what is truly in the best interests of the children. They will consider the parents’ ability to provide for the children emotionally, physically, and financially.
In these cases, the evaluator may also examine how the parents’ financial resources affect their time with the children. For example, one parent might offer a more stable environment for the children, while the other could prioritize their career or personal ambitions. The evaluator’s recommendations will aim to provide a solution that best serves the children’s needs, rather than the parents’ desires.
Legal implications in Florida
Under Florida law, child custody is referred to as “timesharing,” and the courts prioritize the children’s best interests above all else. A custody evaluator’s report can significantly impact how timesharing gets allocated.
Florida Statute § 61.13 outlines the factors a court will consider when determining timesharing, including the child’s relationship with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child, and the moral fitness of each parent. The evaluator’s insights help guide the court’s decision.
The custody evaluator helps the court better understand the family dynamics and provides recommendations based on the child’s best interests. This is important in contested custody battles, especially in high-asset divorces, where emotions and financial interests can cloud judgment.
