Services
Evaluative Procedures
Emergency Screening
An Emergency Screening is similar to an investigation by the Family Court Services. It should be held if the Court is presented with an emergency that suggests the minor child’s health, safety or welfare is at risk.
It requires a formal stipulation and court order specifying the nature of the role and if possible the issues to be addressed.
The Goal
To understand the exigent nature of the current circumstances and assess the issues and parents’ current claims
and concerns.
What does an Emergency Screening entail?
- A minimum of three hours to interview the parents alone and conjointly.
- The interviews may take place over several days.
- Collateral contacts take place as appropriate.
The Result
The result is a brief report or statement of decision with a recommended interim custody order that the parties
may stipulate to pending a court hearing, custody evaluation or other disposition.
NOTE: Based on the results of the Emergency Screening the parties may stipulate to the recommendations pending a court hearing, child custody evaluation or other disposition.
