Psychological Evaluations for Custody & Family Court Cases

Wooden figurines of a woman, a man, and a child in front of a gavel and stacked law books.

Providing Expert Psychological Insight for Complex Family Court Cases

I provide psychological evaluations for parents and/or children as part of custody and family court cases. These evaluations offer clear, objective findings that address referral questions posed by the court, attorneys, or guardians ad litem. My approach is thorough, evidence-based, and informed by clinical expertise as well as an understanding of the legal context in which these evaluations take place.

I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in child and family forensic psychology, receiving advanced training in court-involved evaluations and the intersection of mental health and family law. I bring neutrality, care, and a commitment to producing high-quality, well-supported reports that can meaningfully inform legal decision-making.

Referrals are typically initiated by attorneys, courts, guardians ad litem, or other legal professionals. Please contact me directly to discuss scope, availability, and documentation requirements.

Typical Process for Court-Related Evaluations

The specific steps for a court-related evaluation vary depending on the referral question and court parameters, but often include:

  • Intake interviews with each parent and/or child

  • Psychological testing with each parent and/or child

  • Behavioral observations

  • Questionnaires and rating scales

  • Collateral interviews (e.g., therapists, teachers, pediatricians), with appropriate consent/court authorization

  • Review of pertinent legal, medical, and educational documents, as permitted

  • Comprehensive written report

Evaluation Focus Areas

Psychological evaluations for family court may include assessment of:

  • Parental psychological functioning (e.g., mental health, personality traits, coping, interpersonal functioning)

  • Parenting strengths and challenges

  • Parent-child relationships and attachment

  • Child emotional and behavioral functioning

  • Child psychological needs and individual vulnerabilities

  • Family stressors or risk factors impacting parenting or custody

  • Capacity to support the child’s development, stability, and well-being

Contact Me

Fill out the form below or email me at julia@drjuliaslatkin.com to schedule a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation.