Relocation evaluations in child custody disputes

Abstract

In the months and years after a divorce and custody determination, one or both parents may wish to relocate to a different city. When relocation is requested, forensic psychologists are often called to conduct a relocation evaluation. In this role, the psychologist serves as a facilitator to ensure the best interests of the child are met. The purpose of this chapter is to describe the relocation evaluation process, offer recommendations for comprehensive evaluations, and provide an overview of special circumstances in child relocations.