Forensic Psychology Consultation in Child Custody Litigation - 2nd Edition - Robert Alexander Simon

Forensic Psychology Consultation in Child Custody Litigation 2nd Edition Robert Alexander Simon ISBN 9781641056960

This comprehensive guide examines the increasingly vital role of forensic psychologists as consultants and expert witnesses in child custody litigation. Authors Robert A. Simon and Philip M. Stahl—both forensic psychology consultants with more than 60 years of combined experience—offer practical, experience-based guidance on understanding the complex psychological dynamics that frequently arise in custody disputes. The book also provides clear instruction on how to effectively work with forensic consultants and expert witnesses throughout the litigation process.

Through detailed case examples involving issues such as children’s developmental needs, relocation, domestic violence, and parental alienation, the authors present a structured approach to evaluating and critiquing custody evaluation reports. This process helps practitioners identify strengths and weaknesses in their cases and develop effective litigation strategies.

Topics covered include:

• The distinction between forensic and clinical approaches in child custody evaluations

• Methods for critically assessing the work of neutral, court-appointed custody evaluators

• Common sources of bias in forensic consulting and expert testimony

• Psychological testing issues specific to custody litigation

• Key differences between confidential consulting experts and testifying experts whose work is subject to disclosure

• Developing a cohesive case theory

• Crafting effective questions for direct and cross-examination

• In-depth analysis of critical family dynamics and strategies for addressing them at trial

• And more

Practical, insightful, and litigation-focused, this book is an essential resource for attorneys navigating the psychological complexities of child custody cases.

Forensic Psychology Consultation in Child Custody Litigation 2nd Edition Robert Alexander Simon ISBN 9781641056960, 978-1641056960 & 9781641056977

Authors
Robert Alexander Simon
Philip Stahl