Preparing Clients for Evaluation CD

The practice of hiring mental health professionals by attorneys to prepare their clients for a child custody evaluation appears to be increasing, especially in California. The degree of preparation and or coaching given by the mental health professionals varies. Attorneys have an affirmative obligation to prepare clients for child custody evaluations. Many attorneys also like to win their case. For both of these reasons, attorneys may want to hire a mental health professional to assist in the coaching. At the same time, mental health professionals have a duty not to tamper with the outcome of the evaluation. Many of them want to serve as consultant and believe that they can provide some coaching without significantly altering the outcome of the evaluation. How can the two professions work together to meet the ethical demands of their respective professions? This lively workshop, conducted by a family law specialist, a mental health professional / coach, and a forensic child custody evaluator, will explore the duties of both professions and the limits of coaching, suggesting acceptable boundaries and professional practice for all concerned.

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Conference at a Glance