Forensic Mental Health Consulting in Family Law：Part of the Problem or Part of the Solution?

Forensic Mental Health Professionals have entered the fray of child custody litigation in ways that could not have been predicted even a decade ago. Traditionally engaged as neutral court appointed evaluators or mediators, or as treatment providers for children, parents or families, FMHPs are assuming a range of consulting functions. Services span a wide range, including providing expert testimony on specific content areas; reviewing and critiquing colleague’s work product; providing behind the scenes consultation to attorneys, and even help attorneys manage difficult cases and clients. These more recent services raise questions about sound professional practice. This volume tackles these thorny issues head on, and discusses questions how consultants can work creatively and ethically to make a positive contribution in the challenging world of family law.

This book was originally published as a special issue of Journal of Child Custody.

Robert L. Kaufman, PhD., A.B.P.P. maintains a clinical and forensic practice in Oakland and San Rafael, CA. He is also a senior trial consultant with the San Francisco firm of Bonora D’Andrea, LLC.

S. Margaret Lee, Ph.D. maintains a clinical and forensic practice in Mill Valley, California devoted to divorcing families. Services include custody mediation and evaluation, training, co-parent counselling, expert testimony and consulting with attorneys.