FAQs for Child Family Investigators
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A CFI is a neutral, court-appointed professional tasked with gathering information relevant to parenting time and decision-making issues. The CFI investigates family dynamics, interviews parties and collateral sources, reviews records, and provides findings and recommendations to assist the court in determining the best interests of the child.
No. A CFI does not provide therapy, counseling, or treatment. The CFI’s role is evaluative and investigative, not therapeutic.
A CFI is appointed by the court through an order, either by agreement of the parties or by judicial determination.
CFIs may examine parenting abilities, child–parent relationships, family dynamics, communication patterns, allegations of abuse or neglect, mental health concerns, substance use issues, and factors affecting the child’s safety and well-being.
Common methods include interviews with parents and children, observations of parent–child interactions, review of court filings and records, consultation with collateral professionals (e.g., therapists, teachers, medical providers), and review of relevant documents.
No. The CFI makes recommendations to the court. The judge retains sole authority to make legal decisions regarding custody, parenting time, and parental responsibilities.
Yes. CFIs are required to remain neutral and objective. They do not advocate for either parent or child and must base their findings on professional judgment and available information.
A CFI investigation is generally more limited in scope and duration than a PRE. A PRE conducts a comprehensive psychological evaluation and typically provides more extensive analysis and testing.
No. CFIs may describe observed behaviors, patterns, and concerns, but they do not provide formal mental health diagnoses.
CFIs are mandatory reporters and must report credible allegations or evidence of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities, consistent with state law.
No. Communications with a CFI are not confidential. Information shared with the CFI may be included in the CFI’s report to the court.
No, unless expressly permitted by the CFI or ordered by the court. Recording without consent may be viewed as inappropriate or disruptive.
Non-cooperation may be documented in the CFI’s report and can be considered by the court when evaluating credibility, parental insight, and willingness to support the child’s best interests.
Often yes, depending on the child’s age, developmental level, and the scope of the investigation. The purpose is to understand the child’s experiences, not to have the child choose between parents.
No. While a child’s perspectives may be considered, children do not make custody decisions.
The CFI report summarizes the investigation, observations, and findings, and includes recommendations to the court regarding parenting time and decision-making.
Yes. Parties may challenge or respond to the CFI report through their attorneys, cross-examination, or by presenting additional evidence.
Yes. CFIs may be called to testify regarding their investigation, observations, and recommendations.
Concerns about bias should be raised through legal counsel and addressed by the court. CFIs are bound by ethical and professional standards requiring neutrality.
The timeline varies depending on the court order, case complexity, and cooperation of the parties. Courts often set specific deadlines.
CFIs operate under court rules, statutes, and professional ethical standards, and must adhere to the scope defined by the court’s order.
No. The CFI’s role is distinct from therapists, parenting coordinators, and other professionals. Each has a separate function.
Parents are expected to be respectful, honest, timely, and cooperative, and to focus on the child’s best interests rather than litigation strategy.
Parents should avoid coaching children, disparaging the other parent, attempting to influence the CFI, or selectively providing information out of context.
The ultimate goal is to assist the court in making informed decisions that promote the child’s safety, stability, and overall well-being.
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