Social Investigations
A social investigation and parenting plan recommendation is an investigative process conducted by a mental health professional. The investigator is an impartial examiner that will assess each party, the child(ren), and any other necessary collateral sources in order to formulate an opinion as to how parents should share parental responsibility and recommend the best time-sharing arrangement for each parent and the child.
After the assessment, the investigator will provide the court with a social investigation report that includes facts regarding all parties and a parenting plan recommendation to assist the court in making decisions that are in the best interest of and consider the special needs of the child involved.
What Is The Procedure?
The court may order a social investigation and parenting plan recommendation:
Upon the agreement of both parties;
Upon the request of either party;
Upon the court’s motion when the parents do not agree on parental responsibility or time-sharing arrangements.
How Are Decisions Made?
The court has the responsibility and the final authority for all decisions. Any parenting plan agreed to by the parties or recommended by a professional must be approved by the court.