Family law
Child custody evaluation
An evaluation, investigation or assessment a court orders to help it decide what is best for a child's health, safety and welfare in a disputed custody or visitation case.[1]
In more detail
California's rule sets standards for court-ordered evaluations, such as stating the purpose and scope of each evaluation in the court's order.[1] An evaluation is different from mediation: the evaluator gathers information and usually reports to the court, while a mediator helps the parents agree.
Varies by state
This summary follows California's rule; other states use their own procedures and titles. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Parenting planA document setting out how parents will raise their child after separating: how decisions are made about things like school and health care, and a schedule of time with each parent.
- Guardian ad litemA person a court appoints to look out for a child's best interests in a case, for example by investigating and interviewing people who know about the child's welfare.
- Best interests of the childThe standard courts use to decide custody, time-sharing and visitation: what arrangement is best for the child, rather than for either parent.
Read next on MediationList
Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). Child custody evaluation: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/child-custody-evaluation/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.