Social Investigation (Child Custody Examination)
If parents are unable to agree on a parenting plan, the court may order or request the parties to obtain a social investigation conducted by a qualified mental health professional. A social investigation is a comprehensive study of all pertinent details relating to the child(ren) and each parent with the primary goal being to recommend a time-sharing plan that is in the best interests of the child(ren). The person conducting the social investigation will furnish the court and all parties of record in the proceeding a written report containing recommendations concerning timesharing, decision-making, residence, or other family law matters, as ordered by the court.
The report will include a written statement of the facts on which the recommendations are based. The social investigator will prepare a recommended parenting plan that addresses the parents’ decision making authority and contains specific time-sharing schedules for the court’s consideration.
The doctors at Shanlis have extensive training and experience as well as time in court testifying in this area of family law.