Expert Witness Roles

Refute Findings of the GAL

• The child custody expert may testify on the client’s behalf so as to help the judge understand the psychological and scientific issues as well as the current research as it relates to your case.
• The child custody expert can spot weaknesses in the psychological and scientific findings in the GAL’s or opposing expert’s opinions and recommendations.
• Expert testimony can make a major difference in the award of custody and financial responsibilities going forward over the next eighteen years.

Assist with Cross-Examination of GAL/Child Custody Evaluator

• The child custody expert may reinvestigate and validate or invalidate specific facts of a case and look for and find errors in the GAL’s report.
• Provide research.
• Assist the attorney in gaining a sounder understanding of the psychological issues.
• Educate the attorney and the court to the scientific literature pertaining to the issues.
• Assist the attorney in developing lines of inquiry for cross-examination of the GAL and other experts.

Protect Parental Rights

• Clearly and concisely present an alternative view of the case.
• Reveal and discuss issues omitted by the GAL/Child Custody Evaluator.
• Craft more effective and fairer custody and visitation recommendations.

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