In family law cases, especially those involving child custody disputes, emotions run high, and decisions about a child’s future can become complex and contentious. In some cases, the parties or the Judge need a neutral third party to recommend what is best for the children. This is where a Child and Family Investigator (CFI) plays a critical role. Appointed by the Court on its own or chosen by the parties, a CFI is a neutral third party tasked with investigating and making recommendations in the best interests of the children.

A Parental Responsibilities Evaluator is a neutral third-party professional. This person, by statute, must be a psychologist or mental health expert and have specified training. A PRE is appointed by the Court to assess family dynamics and provide recommendations regarding parenting time and decision-making responsibilities. Their primary focus is the welfare and best interests of the child.

Your divorce or custody case has begun. You attended your Initial Status Conference, and now you have had a custody expert appointed. A custody expert can be either a CFI (Child and Family Investigator) or a PRE (Parental Responsibilities Evaluator). For an introductory conversation on a CFI vs. a PRE, check out this article. After the initial deposit is paid, the next step is likely a large packet of paperwork the CFI or PRE wants you to fill out. Then you will schedule your initial interview.