What’s the Difference Between a CFI and a PRE?

There are two types of evaluators that can be appointed in cases involving child custody: a Child and Family Investigator (“CFI”) or a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator (“PRE”). Parties can agree to appoint a custody evaluator, a party can ask the Court to appoint one, or the Court can appoint one itself. Custody evaluators are appointed in cases where an investigation is necessary to determine the best interests of the children.

 A Child and Family Investigator (“CFI”) is the more commonly appointed evaluator, largely because of the costs. The cost of a CFI is capped (limited) by statute to $3,250.00. The parties can split the cost, or one party may bear the burden. Some low-income cases may qualify for a “state paid” CFI in which the State supplements all or part of the cost.

 A CFI can be an attorney or mental health professional who has received specialized training outlined by the legislature. A CFI’s investigation often involves interviewing the parties, the children, a home visit for each parent, interviewing a few witnesses and reviewing documents provided by the parties. At the end of an investigation, the CFI will issue a report which includes a summary of the investigative steps taken and recommendations as to what parenting time and/or decision-making orders are in the best interests of the children.

 A Parental Responsibilities Evaluator (“PRE”) is a mental health professional and the cost associated with the evaluation can vary significantly. There is no cap, and the hours spent on the case are in no way limited. A PRE is a more expensive option, but is also often much more thorough. PREs can conduct themselves or order an in depth personality testing, psychiatric evaluations, substance use evaluations, and even risk assessments. PRE evaluations involve the same steps as a CFI, but a PRE will often speak to more witnesses, conduct additional interviews with the parties and children, and include other evaluations.

 The necessity of one or the other will be entirely dictated by the circumstances of your case. In general, if the concerns do not go to the health of a parent, or the health and safety of the children, a CFI will likely be sufficient.

If you believe your case needs a custody evaluation, call Palmer Family Law to schedule your free consultation.