Brief Focused Assessment
At times a full scope assessment of the statutory twelve (12) best interest factors is not necessary for a specific dispute. When this happens, the parties/family have the option of seeking a shorter, more pointed review that seeks to answer a limited set of questions specific to the dispute, otherwise known as a Brief Focused Assessment (BFA). For example, “How will a move to mom’s home affect the child’s engagement in school?” is a good question that may resolve a dispute about expanding one parent’s parenting time. This shorter assessment takes the same approach as a full custody and parenting time evaluation but instead focuses interviews and document review on the specific questions posed.
Similar to a custody and parenting time evaluation, the BFA process begins with a court order, but feedback is usually provided only through a written report, with testimony an option at an additional cost. BFAs are also a useful tool for settlement.
A BFA is typically faster and more cost-effective than a full custody evaluation, making it a useful tool when a focused, expert opinion is needed on a limited issue.
A Brief Focused Assessment (BFA) in a custody matter is designed to address specific, time-sensitive issues without the need for a full custody evaluation.
The issues best suited for a BFA include:
Parental Safety Concerns
Evaluating concerns about a parent’s ability to provide safe and appropriate care for the child, such as substance abuse, mental health issues, or neglect.
Relocation Disputes
Assessing whether a proposed move by one parent is in the child’s best interest and how it may impact custody and parenting time.
Allegations of Abuse or Domestic Violence
Investigating claims of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse and their impact on the child’s well-being.
Parent-Child Relationships
Examining the quality of a child’s bond with each parent, particularly if one parent is seeking to change custody arrangements.
Parental Interference or Alienation
Addressing concerns about one parent interfering with the other’s parenting time or attempting to turn the child against them.
Specific Parenting Time Disputes
Resolving conflicts about visitation schedules, exchanges, holiday plans, or a parent’s compliance with an existing order.
Urgent or Emergency Situations
Evaluating immediate safety concerns that may require a temporary modification to custody or parenting time.
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Contact us today to discuss timelines and rates. We also provide services in Spanish and will work with interpreters to accommodate other language preferences.