Logo
  • Meet Debbie
  • Services
    • General Information
    • Independent Custody Assessments
    • Litigation Support for Attorneys
    • Litigation Support for Clients
  • Updates/Blog
    • Case Law Updates
    • Blog
    • News
  • Contact

Independent Custody Assessments

Independent Custody Assessments

Developing and Maintaining Realistic and Reasonable Client Expectations

Your client is confused, fearful and unhappy about how his or her custody case is progressing. You try to maintain perspective. However, custody litigation has its ups and downs, and at times, it is difficult for clients to hear and accept your good advice. The frustration and angst they experience in one of the most difficult times of their lives interferes with rational thinking. Sometimes, it even leads them to distrust the family law court system, or even to start questioning your judgment and advocacy.

The primary purpose of an independent custody assessment is to help clients develop and maintain realistic and reasonable expectations.

A dose of reality from the independent viewpoint of an almost 30-year veteran Guardian ad Litem and custody litigator can be eye-opening for clients. For many, it may allay fears and frustrations. For others, it helps with developing or adjusting expectations. A custody assessment can validate your approach to the case, and help rebuild your client’s confidence in you, and in the court system. Or, it may answer questions, and provide you with different perspectives and trial strategies.

You and your client will receive objective feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of the custody case, as well as suggestions for improving the client’s odds for a favorable custody ruling. The independent nature of the custody assessment is key. You and I have very different and distinct roles in your clients’ custody cases. You are the client’s advocate. I, on the other hand, am an outsider, hired to give an educated assessment of the custody case, based on years of experience. Similar to late case evaluations, independent outside feedback can be the reality check that clients need.

After discovery and the Guardian ad Litem investigation are complete, it is important for you and your client to take a step back from the minutia of the case and focus on the big picture. At this point an independent custody assessment will help to adjust the client’s expectations and goals so that you can develop reasonable settlement options to take to mediation. With the insight, knowledge and perspective that clients receive, they let go of unreasonable positions, and become more flexible in settlement negotiations.

An independent custody assessment is particularly beneficial in damage control situations. For example, you may need to minimize the impact of an unfavorable Guardian ad Litem report, or the effects of your client’s unbecoming behaviors and temporary lapses in judgment. Two heads are usually better than one when the going gets tough. Working together may spark new angles that have not yet occurred to you, and an action plan to repair the damage.

In the initial phases of your client’s custody case, an independent custody assessment provides your client with a picture of what to expect during the litigation and the Guardian ad Litem investigation, and an idea of potential outcomes, given the then-known evidence. Armed with this information, the client is in a position to develop reasonable expectations, and you will be in a position to work on a trial strategy for presenting the issues, and building a strong custody case moving forward. A custody assessment may also unveil areas in the custody case where your client may benefit from one-on-one litigation support for clients, or where you may benefit from litigation support for attorneys.

An independent custody assessment is an added tool to your litigation toolbox that enhances your client’s custody case. Clients appreciate the extra insight and support they get as they work their way through the unfamiliar territory of custody litigation. Without realistic and reasonable expectations, they are bound for disappointment. Attorneys appreciate the additional perspective in their difficult cases, and the support in building stronger custody cases.

"Regardless of the outcome, I thought you did a fine job. I understand your ethics and feel that reflects well not only on you, but me. Thank you for your patience at my frustration."

Joe H., Divorced father

"I do appreciate the work you did, and your insights into this case. Yes, it is easier for me to say that now, that the case has been finalized, but you let this case unfold and you viewed the entire circumstance before committing to a viewpoint. For that, I am very grateful.

Your recommendation, as it was supported by the judge, has given me tremendous responsibility and I intend to do everything in my control to uphold the confidence that was shown to me."

Steven I., Father in GAL case

“Thanks for everything you did to help [my daughter]. You truly got involved and found the truth about what was going on with [my daughter]. Your report did more to help her than anything. You obviously care about the children.”

Andy S., Father in GAL case

“Thank you so much for all that you did during the divorce process. You did a great job and I feel so fortunate to have had your counsel. Your practice of having prospective clients write a marital history is a very wise and enlightening process. I appreciate being so actively involved too. You really helped to make a devastating event bearable. You’re the best! Thank you for doing your best by me.”

Lynn B., Divorced mother

Make the Smart Move

Contact me today to learn how I can add value to your custody case.

Phone: (404) 460-9104 | Email: info@mdgcustodyconsulting.com

These materials have been prepared by M. Debra Gold for general informational purposes only. Nothing in this website should be relied upon, or taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. Instead, you should consult with an attorney who can advise you as to your particular circumstances. The furnishing of this information, and your receipt thereof, do not constitute or create an attorney client relationship with M. Debra Gold. Although comments and feedback are welcome, do not e-mail or otherwise send confidential information to M. Debra Gold without prior authorization, as confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

© Copyright 2022 M. Debra Gold - mdg Custody Consulting ~ All rights reserved | Legal Notices | Privacy Policy | Designed by Gorgeous Geek