Family Assessment Specialist

In complex cases where custody mediation has not worked and safety issues are involved regarding the children, the Family Law Judge may appoint the Family Assessment Specialist in the court hearing.

The Family Assessment Specialist evaluates the family situation and prepares a report, providing the court with in-depth information on the parent's' relationship history, their strengths and weaknesses as parents, the special vulnerabilities and needs of the children, and each parent's capability to meet those needs. Information is obtained through interviews with parents, children and other appropriate contacts, such as, family members, teachers, doctors and therapists. Relevant documents are also reviewed.

The report includes the Family Assessment Specialist's recommendations to the court regarding options for custody and visitation. Once the assessment has been completed, the Family Assessment Specialist meets with the parents to review the information collected and provides the options for patents to consider in creating a parenting plan.

The parents then have the opportunity to arrive at an agreement with a Family Mediator based on the information they have reviewed and their new understanding of a variety of options. Should the mediation effort fail, the family assessment report will be written up and submitted to the Family Court Judge, who then hears the case and issues orders based on the hearing and the information submitted.

For additional information, please call (707) 299-1240.

In cases where a restraining order is in effect, either parent may request information about available parking areas and separate waiting rooms in Family Court Services for mediation appointments.   The main courthouse entrance is staffed by security personnel. Parents may also choose to mediate separately.  See Domestic Violence Services for additional information. Domestic Violence Services

Note: Family Court Orientation, Family Mediation, and Family Law Facilitator and Guardianship Services are offered by Spanish-speaking staff.  Other languages are available through the use of certified interpreters.