Residency, Care & Contact

A Residency, Care and Contact Investigation (Custody Investigation) is a comprehensive assessment designed to determine the parental rights and responsibilities of the parties involved, with a focus on the child's best interests. This process involves evaluating the child’s current living arrangements, the quality of care provided by each parent, and the potential impact of any proposed changes. It includes a thorough assessment of parental capacity, examining each parent's ability to meet the child's needs effectively. The investigation also considers the child's perspectives, ensuring their voice is incorporated into the decision-making process. The ultimate objective is to provide well-informed recommendations on residency, contact, and care arrangements that enhance the child's safety, stability, and overall well-being.

Each case is unique and requires a tailored approach based on its specific circumstances. Once the necessary information is gathered, a structured plan for the investigation is developed.

Example of a Residency, Care and Contact Investigation:

Interview with the caregiver(s).
Risk Assessment.
Forensic interview and assessment of the child(ren).
Collateral investigation involving teachers, family, friends, and other professionals.
Review of relevant documents, including legal papers and previous reports.
Interactional analysis and observation of interactions between caregiver(s) and child(ren).
Home visits.
Submission of a court report with recommendations on the parental rights and responsibilities, as well as the care and contact of the parties, aligned with the best interests of the child.