Custody evaluations can be expensive. Most clinicians charge their usual hourly rate (often 100 dollars or more) for much of the evaluation, and a typical custody evaluation, done in keeping with the standards of the profession, takes well over 20 hours on a relatively straightforward case. In addition some evaluators charge a different fee for court testimony and depositions. The total fee is often advanced as a retainer, (sometimes held in escrow).

Custody evaluations become especially expensive when both sides hire their own expert. If both parents can agree to use the same evaluation, then the process is often seen by all as much fairer, less stressful for the children (and parents), and of course half as expensive. In cases where the evaluator works for both sides, the two parties typically split the fee, either evenly or in some other way that both parties agree is fair and equitable.

What do the evaluators do for 20+ hours? (click here for an in depth answer). Custody evaluations may include psychological testing, either of the children or of the parents. In any thorough custody evaluation, the evaluator will interview both parents, and also the older children. They will be certain to observe the parents on more than one occasion with the children, often in the parent's home. Custody evaluators talk with teachers and therapists, friends and family, and whoever may be useful in giving them the most accurate picture. They will review relevant documents, including the papers filed by both lawyers, and of course they write a report and may testify before the judge, or give depositions.

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