Can a judge order a child custody evaluation?

A judge may believe a child custody investigation or private child custody evaluation is necessary. If so, he or she may appoint a private child custody evaluator or a child custody investigator. Such persons look into the abuse issues and report back to the court.

Can a judge award joint custody in Family Court?

We don’t address dependency court (sometimes called children’s court) or criminal law matters. We also don’t write about parental rights termination cases. In family court, a judge may award joint or sole legal custody and joint or sole physical custody. Parenting time (also called visitation) may be equal or primarily to one parent.

What happens at a family law custody hearing?

At a hearing, a family law judge determines whether there is sufficient evidence of abuse and makes appropriate orders. A judge may believe a child custody investigation or private child custody evaluation is necessary.

What happens if you lose custody of your child?

Losing custody of a child generally means loss of joint legal and/or physical custody. In addition, visitation may become limited or supervised. Child abuse is the number one reason to lose custody of a child A very common reason to lose custody of a child is child abuse.

What can a judge do in a child custody case?

A judge also has the power to contact social services or get the law enforcement involved. A family law judge’s focus in a child custody case is the child’s best interest. That focus means whatever steps are reasonably necessary to protect the child are usually the ones implemented.

Why did a judge deny me custody of my child?

A judge may deny custody for various reasons, including: Safety issues in your home. The other parent was more involved in your child’s life. The judge considered your new partner a potential threat to your child. The judge felt you had anger issues that could be bad for your child.

When does a father get custody of a child?

In 2013, the father filed a petition seeking legitimation and custody of the child. The maternal grandmother responded to the father’s petition, but the child’s mother did not. The court granted legitimation and legally changed the child’s last name to the father’s last name.

What happens if I lose custody of my child?

Keep in mind losing custody doesn’t mean you’re a bad mother. It only means the judge felt, at that time, it was best for your child. A judge may deny custody for various reasons, including: Safety issues in your home. The other parent was more involved in your child’s life.