Parental Responsibility Evaluations (PRE)

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 A Parental Responsibility Evaluation (PRE) is a court-ordered forensic evaluation conducted to assist the Court in determining parental decision-making and parenting time arrangements that serve the best interests of the child.
A PRE involves a comprehensive, neutral assessment of family functioning, including:

• Interviews with each parent  
• Interviews with the child(ren), when appropriate  
• Review of collateral records (medical, educational, therapeutic, legal)  
• Collateral contacts (when authorized)  
• Observation of parent-child interactions  
• Assessment of developmental, psychological, and relational factors  

As an evaluator, I serve in a neutral role. The purpose of the evaluation is not to provide therapy, advocacy, or legal representation, but to provide the Court with objective findings and recommendations grounded in clinical expertise, family-systems theory, and the best-interest factors outlined under Colorado statute.
PREs are particularly helpful in high-conflict cases, cases involving allegations of emotional harm, complex family dynamics, or significant co-parenting breakdown.
 

• A PRE is a forensic evaluation, not therapy.
• There is no therapeutic confidentiality in this role. 
• Findings are reported to the Court. 
• The evaluator does not serve as an advocate for either party. 
• Payment arrangements are determined by Court order or retainer agreement.

A comprehensive PRE may include:

• Individual parent interviews 
• Child interviews (developmentally appropriate) 
• Parent-child observational sessions 
• Review of collateral records (school, medical, therapeutic, legal) 
• Collateral contacts (with signed releases or court authorization) 
• Psychological screening measures, when indicated 
• Analysis of family systems dynamics, attachment patterns, and co-parenting capacity
   

The final written report includes clinical impressions and recommendations directed to the Court.

PRE services are billed at a forensic rate due to the time-intensive and court-involved nature of the work.

A non-refundable retainer is required prior to initiation of services. The retainer amount is determined by case complexity and Court order.

• Interviews (parents and children) 
• Observation sessions 
• Record review 
• Collateral contacts 
• Report writing 
• Court testimony preparation 
• Travel time 
• Administrative case management
   

• Psychological testing materials 
• Extensive document review exceeding typical scope 
• Expert testimony (billed separately) 
• Rush reporting (if ordered by the Court)
   

Fee allocation between parties is determined by Court order or written agreement.

Because PRE work is forensic in nature, payment is required regardless of outcome or recommendations.