Custody can be overwhelming, especially when parents can come to agreement even though you both want the best intention for your child. Custody evaluation can come in handy and provide a neutral, professional insight and sort things out in the best manner that will shape your child’s future. At Tailor Law, we understand how personal and emotional this part can be. Our family lawyers work tirelessly with parents across Mississauga, Toronto, and the GTA to guide them through the custody evaluations in Ontario ensuring your side is heard, rights are protected, and above all your child’s needs are put first.
Quick Answer: What Is a Custody Evaluation in Ontario?
A custody evaluation in Ontario is a formal assessment conducted by a qualified professional (such as a social worker, psychologist, or family specialist) to help the court determine the best custody and parenting arrangements for a child. Tailor Law’s lawyers help you prepare for, participate in, and respond to custody evaluations in Ontario to ensure your child’s needs and your parental rights are fully considered.
Service Overview: Understanding Custody Evaluations in Ontario
A custody evaluation also known as (parenting assessment or Section 30 assessment) under the Children’s Law Reform Act can be requested or by the court to send trained professionals like social worker, psychologist, or family specialist to take a close look at your family situation. Their job is to give the court unbiased perspective on the custody as parenting arrangements that might be best suited for your child.
Why Custody Evaluations Matter
- Helps the court make informed, child-focused decisions
- Provides an impartial, professional perspective
- Identifies risks, strengths, and the child’s unique needs
- Can resolve high-conflict or complex custody disputes
How Custody Evaluations Work in Ontario
- Who Conducts the Evaluation: Qualified mental health professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, or family specialists.
- What’s Involved: Interviews with parents, children, and sometimes extended family; home visits; review of documents; and observation of parent-child interactions.
- Report & Recommendations: The evaluator prepares a detailed report with findings and recommendations for custody, parenting time, and sometimes specific parenting strategies.
- Court’s Role: Judges consider the report alongside other evidence but are not bound by its recommendations.
- Costs: Fees are typically shared or assigned by the court and vary based on complexity.
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Why Choose Tailor Law for Custody Evaluation Support in Ontario?
- 10+ Years of Family Law Experience: Our lawyers have guided parents through hundreds of custody evaluations in Mississauga, Toronto, and the GTA.
- Child-Centered Advocacy: We help you present your strengths, address concerns, and keep the focus on your child’s best interests.
- Proven Results: Our team has successfully resolved high-conflict, relocation, and special needs cases with the help of custody evaluations in Ontario.
- Comprehensive Support: From preparing for the evaluation to presenting your case in court, we’re with you every step of the way.
- Multilingual Team: Serving the diverse communities of the GTA in multiple languages.
How We’re Different
| Feature | Tailor Law PC | Other Firms |
| Transparent Billing | ✔ Upfront, clear pricing | ✖ Hidden or unclear fees |
| Mediation & Litigation Expertise | ✔ Skilled in both | ✖ Often limited to one |
| 24/7 Consultations | ✔ Flexible, urgent support | ✖ Limited hours |
| Personalized Strategies | ✔ Tailored to your unique case | ✖ Generic, templated service |
| Multilingual Services | ✔ Languages for GTA communities | ✖ English only |
| Free Initial Consultation | ✔ No obligation, honest advice | ✖ Paid first meeting |
Our Process: How Tailor Law Supports You in Custody Evaluations in Ontario
- Free Consultation:
- We review your situation, explain the custody evaluation process, and assess your case’s strengths and challenges.
- Preparation:
- Our lawyers help you gather relevant documents, prepare for interviews, and understand what evaluators look for.
- Participation:
- We guide you through the evaluation, help you communicate effectively, and respond to evaluator requests.
- Review & Response:
- Once the report is complete, we review its findings with you, address any inaccuracies, and prepare your response.
- Court Representation:
- We advocate for your interests in court, using the evaluation report as part of a comprehensive strategy.
Take the First Step – Approach Custody Evaluations with Confidence
Custody evaluation can feel intimidating, but we are here to fully prepare and support you through every step. Call (905) 366-0202 or book a confidential consultation online. Our lawyers are available 24/7, and your first meeting is always free.
Reviews & Testimonials
“Tailor Law prepared me for every stage of the custody evaluation. Their lawyers made sure my child’s needs were front and centre.”
— N.P., Mississauga
“I was nervous about the assessment, but Tailor Law explained everything and helped me put my best foot forward.”
— D.S., Toronto
“Their team helped me respond to the evaluator’s report and protected my rights in court.”
— J.L., Brampton
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Frequently Asked Questions About Custody Evaluations in Ontario
1. Who orders a custody evaluation?
The court may order an evaluation, or parents can agree to one if custody is disputed.
2. Who pays for the evaluation?
Costs are usually shared or assigned by the court, depending on the case.
3. What does the evaluator look for?
The evaluator assesses each parent’s strengths, the child’s needs, relationships, and the overall family situation.
4. Is the evaluator’s recommendation binding?
No, but judges give significant weight to the report’s findings.
5. How long does the evaluation take?
It can take several weeks to months, depending on complexity and scheduling.
6. Can I challenge the evaluator’s findings?
Yes. Your lawyer can help address inaccuracies or present additional evidence in court.
7. What if my child has special needs?
The evaluator considers all unique circumstances, including medical or developmental needs.
8. Will my child be interviewed?
Often, yes—especially if the child is old enough to express their views.
9. Can the evaluation be used in future proceedings?
Yes, the report may be referenced in later court actions or modifications.
10. Do I need a lawyer for a custody evaluation?
A lawyer helps you prepare, participate, and respond—maximizing your chances of a positive outcome.
Lawyer Bio: Deepa Tailor
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[Alt text: Deepa Tailor, Managing Lawyer at Tailor Law PC]
Deepa Tailor, H.BSc, J.D.
Managing Lawyer, Tailor Law Professional Corporation
Deepa Tailor is a respected family lawyer with an H.BSc and J.D., and over a decade of experience supporting clients through custody evaluations and complex parenting disputes. A graduate of the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and a member of the Law Society of Ontario, Deepa is known for her empathetic, strategic approach and commitment to child-focused outcomes.
This content was legally reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Managing Lawyer at Tailor Law PC.
Take Action Now – Prepare for Your Custody Evaluation
Don’t leave your child’s future to chance. Call (905) 366-0202 or book your free consultation online now. Our experienced family law team is ready to help—24/7.
