Finding the right custody evaluator is a crucial step for Minnesota parents navigating the challenging waters of divorce and child custody arrangements. At AMS Mediation, we understand that your children’s wellbeing is your top priority, and we’re here to provide professional, compassionate custody evaluation services throughout Minnesota.
What Is a Custody Evaluation?
A custody evaluation is a professional assessment conducted to determine what custody and parenting time arrangements would best serve your children’s interests. Child custody evaluations occur frequently when custody is in question for divorcing couples, and AMS Mediation is uniquely qualified to help you through this process.
In general, a child custody evaluation is a process by which a mental health professional evaluates the parents and children, and then makes a recommendation to the court regarding custody and visitation. This evaluation provides the court with objective information to help make informed decisions about your children’s future.
The Custody Evaluation Process
When you work with AMS Mediation as your custody evaluator, you can expect a thorough, fair process that includes:
• Investigation: Interviews with both parents and children (when appropriate), home and school visits, meetings with healthcare providers and teachers, and review of pertinent documentation
• Observation of parent-child interactions
• Assessment of each parent’s ability to meet the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs
• Evaluation of co-parenting communication and cooperation
• Written report with recommendations based on Minnesota law and your children’s best interests
A full custody evaluation typically takes 3 to 6 months to complete. While the evaluator’s recommendations are not legally binding, the Court often relies heavily on them, which is why many cases settle after recommendations are received.
Why Choose AMS Mediation for Your Custody Evaluation
Amber Serwat of AMS Mediation can serve as your Custody Evaluator (CE) and complete a full investigation, written report, and even provide testimony if the case moves to court. Here’s why Minnesota families trust us:
• Extensive experience with Minnesota custody law and evaluation procedures
• Compassionate, non-judgmental approach that puts children first
• Professional expertise in assessing family dynamics
• Commitment to fair, objective evaluations
• Clear communication throughout the process
Our team shares your concern for the well-being of your children, so we place a strong emphasis on the custody evaluation process. Our work with couples in custody issues is based on providing the most accurate information about Minnesota child custody law and policy.
Preparing for Your Custody Evaluation
Going through a child custody evaluation can be stressful for parents. It’s important to understand how you can minimize your stress ahead of time so that you can represent yourself as accurately as possible. We recommend:
• Cooperate fully with the evaluator
• Treat the evaluation as a professional meeting
• Be punctual, prepared, and organized
• Respond to questions honestly
• Focus on your children’s needs rather than conflicts with your co-parent
• Gather relevant documentation about your parenting involvement
Serving Minnesota Parents
AMS Mediation provides custody evaluation services throughout Minnesota, including Dakota County, Hennepin County, and the greater Twin Cities area. Our office is conveniently located in Burnsville, but we also offer virtual appointments when appropriate.
Remember that while custody evaluations may feel overwhelming, they exist to ensure your children’s best interests are protected. At AMS Mediation, we’re committed to making this process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
If you need a custody evaluator in Minnesota, contact AMS Mediation for a consultation. We offer free one-hour consultations to discuss your specific situation and how we can help.
Call us at (952) 252-1492 or email gabe@amsmediationplus.com to learn more about our custody evaluation services and how we can assist your family during this challenging time.
AMS Mediation — Putting Your Children’s Needs First
