When you are in the middle of a custody case, few moments feel more nerve-racking than hearing that the court has appointed a parental responsibilities evaluator in Colorado.
You may already be stressed, frustrated, or unsure what this means for your future with your child. The process can feel deeply personal, and it is. The evaluator’s report can influence where your child lives, who makes major decisions, and how parenting time is shared.
So what should you expect from this process, and how can you prepare without losing sleep? Understanding the role of the parental responsibilities evaluator, knowing how to prepare for your first meeting, and recognizing the importance of experienced legal guidance can help you feel confident and focused throughout the process.
If you have additional questions about meeting with a parental responsibilities evaluator, please contact our Denver child custody lawyers today at (303) 781-0322.
What Is a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator?
A parental responsibilities evaluator in Colorado (often called a PRE) is a court-appointed mental health professional or social worker tasked with assessing the best parenting arrangement for your child.
The evaluator typically conducts in-depth interviews and psychological evaluations, reviews documents, and may even speak with teachers or medical providers. Their findings are compiled in a detailed report that the court considers when determining parenting time, decision-making authority, and other custody matters.
PREs are appointed in high-conflict or complex cases where the judge needs more context to make decisions in the child’s best interest. Their role is evaluative, not therapeutic. Because the court relies heavily on the evaluator’s conclusions, the process can significantly shape the outcome of your case.
When the Court Orders an Evaluation
Judges take Colorado parental responsibility laws seriously and do not order evaluations lightly. A PRE is typically appointed when serious or complex disputes exist, such as:
- Concerns about a parent’s mental health or substance use. These issues may affect decision-making capacity or a child’s safety.
- Requests to relocate with the child. A move outside Colorado often triggers significant disputes about parenting time.
- Allegations of abuse or exposure to conflict. The evaluator may need to assess whether contact with either parent poses emotional or physical risks.
- Special needs or behavioral issues. The evaluator may review each parent’s ability to meet the child’s developmental or medical needs.
- Persistent disagreements about parenting roles. Even when no safety issue exists, long-term disputes over authority may warrant professional input.
These evaluations help the court identify what arrangement serves the child’s best interests.
What Happens Before the First Meeting with a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator in Colorado
After being appointed, the parental responsibilities evaluator will send both parents an informational packet and questionnaire. This form may ask about your relationship history, your child’s needs, and concerns about the other parent.
Before submitting your responses, review your draft with your attorney. The evaluator’s first impressions often begin with that document, and clear, accurate language matters.
Our child custody attorney can help you thoughtfully frame your answers while remaining truthful and consistent with the facts of your case.
Your First Meeting with the Evaluator: What to Expect
Meeting with a Colorado parental responsibilities evaluator is often required in contested custody cases. While the idea of being assessed may feel intrusive, preparation and transparency can make the process far less daunting. During your initial meeting:
- You’ll be asked about your child’s daily routine, needs, and any concerns you have about the other parent’s behavior;
- You may be asked to complete questionnaires or provide documents, such as school reports or communication logs;
- The evaluator may observe interactions between you and your child; and
- Your demeanor, communication style, and willingness to cooperate are all being noted.
Many evaluators conduct individual interviews with each parent. Depending on the child’s age and maturity level, they may also interview the child and conduct home visits.
Psychological Testing and Home Visits
Evaluations frequently involve psychological tests or similar assessments. These tests help assess emotional functioning, stress response, and interpersonal tendencies that could affect parenting. There is no way to “ace” these tests, so authenticity is the best approach.
Another key stage involves a home visit. During this visit, the evaluator observes how you and your child interact in your home environment. They may note:
- How comfortable and safe the living space feels,
- Your responsiveness to your child’s emotional cues,
- Communication patterns and discipline style, and
- The child’s demeanor and comfort around you.
Some evaluators also conduct joint sessions with both parents to observe how they communicate and handle tension. While these moments may be uncomfortable, they assist the evaluator in assessing your ability to work together for the child’s best interest.
Tips to Approach the Process with Confidence
While the evaluator’s insights can certainly sway the court’s decisions, they don’t hold all the cards. How you choose to present yourself is equally important and can make a significant impact:
- Be honest. If there are challenges or past mistakes, acknowledge them and focus on what you’ve done to improve.
- Stay child-focused. Always bring the discussion back to your child’s needs, not your frustration with the other parent.
- Be respectful. Treat the evaluator professionally. They serve the child’s interests, not yours or the other parent’s.
- Don’t coach your child. Let your child express their views naturally if they’re interviewed.
The more sincere and prepared you are, the more you contribute to an accurate and helpful evaluation.
What Makes Plog & Stein, P.C. Different
At Plog & Stein, P.C., family law isn’t just a practice area. It’s our calling. With decades of experience in custody cases, including those involving parental responsibility evaluations, our team is dedicated to safeguarding our clients’ parental rights. Colorado courts recognize us for our preparedness, pragmatism, and passion.
Our attorneys help clients present their strengths, highlight important context, and challenge an evaluation when it seems biased or inaccurate. We also understand the human side of this process and prioritize responsive communication, consistent updates, and a compassionate approach.
Whether you’re starting the custody process or addressing an evaluator’s report, we offer strategic representation focused on your child’s best interests.
Talk to a Lawyer Who’s Been Through This Before
You don’t have to do it alone if you’re heading into a parental responsibilities evaluation. Our family law attorney can provide invaluable guidance during a parental responsibilities evaluation.
They’ll help you prepare your documentation, clarify your goals, and avoid missteps that could undermine your credibility. Having an advocate on your side helps you stay focused on what truly matters: your child’s future.
Parental Responsibilities Evaluator FAQs
Can I Object to the Evaluator’s Findings?
If you believe the evaluator’s report to be inaccurate or biased, you have the right to object through your attorney. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may pursue options such as requesting a supplemental evaluation or contesting the report’s admissibility.
Is a PRE the Same as a CFI (Child and Family Investigator)?
No. CFIs typically conduct more limited evaluations and are often used in less complex cases. PREs have broader authority and may include psychological testing or home visits as part of their process.
What If I Can’t Afford an Evaluation?
PREs can be costly, but the court may adjust cost-sharing between parties. Sometimes, less expensive alternatives such as a CFI may be considered. It’s important to raise this concern with your attorney or the court early in the process.
How Long Does a Parental Responsibility Evaluation Take in Colorado?
The timeline varies, but often ranges from eight to twelve weeks. More complex cases involving psychological testing or multiple interviews may take longer, especially if the evaluator requests additional documentation.
