Record review is a routine element of child custody evaluation. However, there are few guidelines and little literature to assist evaluators or attorneys in this crucial area. In this panel, information will be provided to help evaluators best profit from records–and avoid dangerous pitfalls–and to help attorneys make the most of the opportunity to submit records. The panelists will discuss such records as the parties’ motions and declarations, emails between the parties, Family Court Services reports, CPS reports, police reports, psychotherapy records, audio and video recordings, and narratives prepared by attorneys. In light of the Sanchez decision, the use, reliability, and admissibility of certain records will be considered. Practical issues such as how to obtain hard-to-get records and managing disputes over which documents should be reviewed will be discussed. Case examples in which record review decisions helped or undermined evaluations will be presented.
Learning Objectives:
This workshop is designed to help you:
- compare advantages and disadvantages of different types of records in child custody evaluations.
- assess, in light of the Sanchez decision, the use, reliability, and admissibility of certain records.
- manage practical issues related to obtaining records and including material in reports.