Family Evaluation in Custody Litigation: Reducing Risks of Ethical Infractions and Malpractice (Forensic Practice Guidebook) - Hardcover

This text provides a step-by-step child custody assessment protocol that protects families, while at the same time helps new evaluators minimize the likelihood of committing ethical infractions or malpractice. For mental health professionals interested in a career in forensic child custody assessment, balancing both the legal and clinical issues that surround family evaluations and custody disputes can be complicated. Without this knowledge, the risk of causing undue emotional injury increases. The book puts family litigation into context and reviews the legal evidentiary standards that pertain to psychological testing, scientific evidence and expert witness testimony used in the court system. Although written for the novice evaluator, it can help enhance the clinical skills of even the most seasoned evaluators, as it offers a complete overview of the judicial process and the evolving changes in the standards of practice. The authors share valuable materials, including a sample written evaluation report and other forms that readers can adapt for use in their own practices. The book draws from a practical and straightforward assessment methodology that is founded on empirical research, clinical expertise and professional practice. Those also interested in cultivating a practice outside the parameters of the managed health care system should find the authors' instruction useful. The book is recommended reading for any mental health professional who wants to conduct custody evaluations while adhering to the highest ethical standards and guidelines.

G. Andrew H. Benjamin, J.D., Ph.D., ABPP is Director of the Parenting Evaluation Treatment Program (PETP) at the University of Washington. Dr. Benjamin was named "Professional of the Year" by the Washington State Bar Association's Family Law Section. He was elected President of the Washington State Psychological Association and later his colleagues there created an Association award named after him for "outstanding and tireless contributions." He was honored by the Puyallup Indian Nation's Health Authority for serving as a "modern day warrior fighting the mental illnesses, drug-alcohol addictions" of the people served by the Nation's program. He has served as a member and a Chair of the American Psychological Association s Committee on Legal Issues (COLI), and APA s Policy and Planning Board (P&P). He has published 57 peer reviewed articles in Psychology, Law, and Psychiatry journals, many of which addressed ethical issues, and is the author of three books published by APA: "Law and Mental Health Professionals (1995,1998);" "Family Evaluation in Custody Litigation: Reducing Risks of Ethical Infractions and Malpractice (2003); and The Duty to Protect: Ethical, Legal, and Professional Considerations for Mental Health Professionals (2009). "He received the Heiser Award from APA in recognition of his record of public service and advocacy in numerous areas of professional activity.

Sales is Director of the Psychology, Policy and Law Program at the University of Arizona, Tucson, where he is also a professor of psychology, psychiatry, sociology, and law.