SECTION 30 CUSTODY AND ACCESS ASSESSORS

A court may order an assessment of the needs of the child and the ability and willingness of the parents to meet those needs.

The purpose of an assessment is for an expert with professional skill, usually a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker, to provide information to the court not otherwise available.

Parties also may consent to an assessment. Counsel may only release a client’s confidential information to any third party, including an expert witness, after obtaining express written instructions.

The assessor’s role is to provide expert evidence to assist the trial judge in his or her decision.