Going through a divorce in Georgia is difficult enough; add a child custody case into the mix, and weeks plus an additional amount of stress can be added to the process. If parents can agree on the custody of their child, the process may go a little quicker. However, there are cases in which not only do the parents not agree, but each person is accusing the other of being an unfit parent. In this case, a psychologist would most likely be brought into the picture.
In the best interest of the child
No matter what state you live in, a judge will rule in favor of the parent that will provide a life for the child that is in their best interest. However, when that is not clear, a psychologist will step in to research each parent’s life. Much of the process will involve multiple interviews. The psychologist will ask about the child’s daily routines, their teachers, interests, and friends. Although these might sound like simple questions, they also show who has a clear interest in the child’s life.
Interviewing the child
Children will often be too scared to speak in front of the judge or go against each parent’s wishes during a child custody case. Understandably, this could make it very difficult for a child to choose one parent over the other. In this case, a psychologist will interview the child in private. During this interview, they will discuss each parent’s characteristics, who takes care of them the most, and any other issues that have not come up in court.
If you’re in a difficult position where no agreement has been reached, you may be able to request a psychologist on your own. Through the service of an attorney, you may be able to use the information gathered by the psychologist to obtain custody of your child.
