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Always, always comply with your attorney's
directions. You hired them, so listen to them; they are the
experts.
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Once the evaluator has been determined by the parties and
their attorneys, cooperate with the evaluator. While you
may be doubtful about the process, the evaluator is there to help
your family and the court determine what is in the best interests
of the children.
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As difficult as it may be at this time, try to separate the
problems you have with your marriage from your parenting
role and responsibilities.
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Do not consider the evaluation process as a win - lose
contest. This is an excellent time to focus on the
future.
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You can help your chidren by being open and honest with the
evaluator; they are truly there to help.
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Evaluators can be a resource of information on books that
might help, parenting classes in the community, counseling or
other areas of need.
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Keep your appointments and if you can not make an appointment,
call the evaluator and tell them why and reschedule.
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Put information about school, health and medical concerns and
other related information in an organized format and share these
with the evaluator.
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Write down questions or concerns you may have as they
come up. Again, this is a stressful time in your life and
you will probably forget somethings when you are with the
evaluator. Bring your list of questions to the
sessions.
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Custody evaluations are not the same as going to a
psychologist or counselor; the information you share will
probably be put in a report for the court and others to
see. Therefore, talk to your attorney before you reveal any
information. If in doubt, always talk to your
attorney before you talk to anyone else. You have
a confidential relationship with your attorney and NOT with
the custody evaluator!