1. Parents’ are persistently in significant conflict with one another;
2. There are serious concerns about the mental health or behavior of either parent;
3. Any other reason deemed appropriate by the Court.
A court appointed advisor is specifically authorized by Rule 10(E), Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure to testify or submit a report setting for the advisors recommendations regarding the best interests of the children and the basis for the advisors recommendation. A court appointed advisor may be called as a witness for the purpose of cross examination regarding the report without being listed as a witness by a party. Typically, the court appointed advisor has the authority to:
a. Meet with the children;
b. Meet and interview the parents, spouses, significant others and all adults living in the household;
c. Visit the home(s) of the parents to determine if the environments are appropriate for the children;
d. Investigate and review both parents, their spouses and significant others’ backgrounds with regard to criminal arrests and convictions;
e. Determine if drug testing by either or both parents is needed;
f. Review the children’s school/daycare records, parenting skills records, psychological evaluations and counseling records;
g. Visit/Interview the children’s daycare providers; and
h. Review law enforcement, court or child protective services reports concerning the children.
Arizona family law is complicated, and no child, parent, guardian, or other relative should attempt to navigate the system alone. Simon Law Group is here to help: 480-745-2450.
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