Guidelines for Custody Evaluations (provided by David S. Pollock, Attorney at Law) Treat the psychologist with respect. Be friendly, sincere and candid. Smile. Approach the evaluation as you would approach a job interview. Do not become defensive. Do not treat the psychologist as a confidante. Statements that you make to the psychologist are NOT confidential. NEVER say anything negative about the other parent or his or her family. Emphasize the good things about your children and your relationship with them. Demonstrate your knowledge about their interests, friends, teachers, academic pursuits and after school activities. If the psychologist asks you about the other parents negative qualities, stick to the facts. Describe a oklahoma divorce records divorce lawyer specific incident without commentary and let the psychologist draw his or her own conclusion. DO NOT suggest the possibility of physical, sexual or psychological abuse unless you have clear proof. The psychologist cannot investigate allegations of child abuse but has a duty to report to CYS. If you believe that your child has been abused, contact CYS. An unproven allegation of abuse is EXTREMELY damaging to your credibility and your case. Tell the psychologist exactly what you want and what you are willing to give up. If you are asked to describe the partial custody schedule that you would like the other parent to have, be generous. Try to reconcile your divorce lawyer divorce lawyer childrens school and social schedules with your work schedule and the other parents work schedule. Do not devote a lot of time discussing minor issues such as holidays, vacations or transportation unless such issues are very important to you. If you are willing to engage in further mediation or family counselling, say so. Tell the psychologist whether you desire a highly structured schedule or can be flexible. Be prepared and stay focused. Bring homework, games or food (if appropriate) for the interactional sessions. Calm your children's nervousness but do not coach them about what to say. Bring written information about schools, churches or synagogues, sports and arts activities, divorce help divorce lawyer doctors and counsellors
