Child Custody Investigation

Child custody investigations are conducted in the context of a child custody dispute to gather information and evidence to help a court determine which parent or guardian is best suited to have custody of a child. The purpose of a child custody investigation is to determine the child's best interests, which is the standard used by courts to make custody decisions.

Private investigators typically conduct child custody investigations, but government agencies with limited resources, such as the police or child protective services, may also conduct them. The scope of a child custody investigation can vary depending on the specific facts of the case, but it may include the following:

Interviews: The investigator may interview the parents, grandparents, other family members, and anyone with information relevant to the child’s best interests.
Home visits: The investigator may visit the homes of the parents or guardians to observe the living conditions and the interactions between the child and the adults in the home.
Background checks: The investigator may conduct background checks on the parents or guardians to gather information about their criminal history, employment history, and other relevant factors.
Surveillance: The investigator may conduct surveillance on the parents or guardians to observe their behavior and gather information about their lifestyle and habits.
Psychological evaluation: An investigator may also conduct a psychological evaluation on the parents or guardians or the child to determine the mental and emotional well-being of the individuals involved.

The duration of a child custody investigation can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of information. It is important to work with a professional child custody investigator with the experience and resources to conduct an effective and efficient investigation and comply with the laws and regulations of the jurisdiction where the investigation is taking place.

Here are some additional tips for hiring a child custody investigator:

Make sure the investigator is licensed and insured.
Make sure the investigator understands your goals for the investigation.
Get everything in writing, including the scope of work, fees, and payment terms.

Child custody investigations can be complex and sensitive, but they can be an essential tool for ensuring that children are placed in a safe and loving home.