Child Custody and Access Assessments (Section 15):

Child Custody and Access assessments are undertaken to determine the best interests of the children when the parents cannot agree on which parent should have primary custody; or, how visitation can best be arranged; or, other child related issues that remain in conflict following a separation or divorce. The assessement generally includes the following:

• Each parent is interviewed individually at least twice
• The child/children, is interviewed or observed at least three times (alone and with each parent) to determine the child's view.
• The interview is child centred and undertaken in a manner that should not be distressing to the child nor should it leave the child feeling responsible for the final outcome.
• Relevant collateral sources are interviewed ie family physician; other professionals who have been involved; the children’s teachers or daycare provider.
• All relevant legal information is reviewed. Allegations of sexual, physical, or emotional abuse or neglect or other abuse or neglect allegations require noitification of appropriate delegated authorities.

Most Custody and Access Assessments require between 30 and 50 hours to complete.

For further information on this service, please contact Brenda McCreight directly at 250-716-9101