Our Child and Family Investigator Services
Conducting Interviews
As part of the Child and Family Investigator’s process, interviews are conducted with all relevant parties, including the parents, the child, and other key individuals involved in the child’s life. This can include teachers, therapists, and other trusted adults who can provide insights into the family dynamics and the child’s needs. These interviews help the CFI gather critical information to make an informed recommendation about parenting time and decision-making.
Reviewing Case Documents
A thorough review of case documents is an essential part of the investigation. The CFI examines any existing legal documents, such as prior court orders, custody arrangements, and other relevant paperwork. This helps provide context for the investigation and ensures that all aspects of the case are understood, so that the CFI can make a well-informed assessment of the child’s best interests.
Observing the Family Environment
The Child and Family Investigator will often observe the family environment firsthand, assessing how the parents interact with the child and how the child behaves in each environment. This direct observation provides valuable insight into the emotional and physical well-being of the child and helps to identify any potential concerns regarding custody or visitation arrangements.
Providing a Report About the Best Interests of a Child
After gathering and analyzing all the relevant information, the CFI prepares a detailed report for the Court. This report includes the CFI’s findings about the child’s best interests, including recommendations on parenting time, decision-making, and any other relevant issues. The Court relies heavily on this report to make informed decisions about custody and parenting arrangements.
Testifying as a Witness (In Some Cases)
In contested custody cases, the Child and Family Investigator may be called upon to testify as a witness in court. This testimony helps clarify the CFI’s findings and ensures that the child’s best interests are taken into account during the court proceedings. The CFI’s impartial testimony can provide the Court with additional clarity, particularly when parties cannot agree on the best course of action.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about Child and Family Investigator in Colorado
Still have questions? Reach out to us today.
What does a Child and Family Investigator do?
A Child and Family Investigator (CFI) is appointed by the Court to conduct an investigation in a child custody case. They gather information from the parents, child, and others involved, such as teachers or therapists, to help determine what arrangement is in the child’s best interests. They prepare a detailed report with their findings, which the Court will use to make decisions about parenting time and decision-making.
Why is a Child and Family Investigator needed in my case?
A CFI is necessary in complex custody cases where the parents are in dispute over parenting time, decision-making, or other key issues. The CFI helps the Court understand the family dynamics and the child’s needs, which is critical in ensuring a fair and informed decision is made.
How are Child and Family Investigators appointed?
A Child and Family Investigator is appointed by the Court in cases where child custody is contested, and the Court believes that an expert investigation is necessary to determine the child’s best interests. The CFI works independently of the parties and submits a report to the Court with their findings and recommendations.
How much does it cost to hire a Child and Family Investigator?
The costs associated with a Child and Family Investigator can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the level of investigation required. Laurence I. Gendelman, Esq. accepts private pay appointments, while Sarah Mitchell, Esq. accepts both state pay and private pay appointments. Please contact us for more information on fees and payment options.
Can a Child and Family Investigator testify in court?
Yes, a Child and Family Investigator can testify in court as a witness regarding their findings and recommendations. Their testimony is intended to provide the Court with a clearer understanding of the child’s best interests, which can influence the final decision on custody and parenting time.
