Forensic Psychology Consultation in Child Custody Litigation: A Handbook for Work Product Review, Case Preparation, and Expert Testimony

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This comprehensive book addresses the increasingly important role of forensic psychologists in consulting and in expert witness testimony in child custody litigation. Authors Robert A. Simon and Philip M. Stahl, forensic psychology consultants with more than 60 years of combined experience, provide practical advice on understanding the critical psychological dynamics frequently encountered in child custody cases as well as guidance for how to effectively use your own forensic consultant and testifying expert in litigation.

Using case examples where critical issues such as the developmental need of children, relocation, domestic violence, and the alienated child are involved, the authors explain a logical process to critique the evaluation reports of others and help you analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your case.

Among the topics covered are:

• Forensic vs. clinical approach in child custody evaluations
• A method for critiquing the work of the neutral court-appointed custody evaluator
• Types of biases in forensic consulting and expert testimony
• Issues in psychological testing in custody litigation
• Differences between the "behind-the-scenes" consultant whose work remains privileged and the testifying expert whose work is subject to disclosure from the start
• Developing a case theory
• Constructing questions for direct and cross examination
• In-depth discussion of important family dynamics and how to address these specific issues at the custody trial, and more

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