What is a Social Investigation?
In Florida, a social investigation is when an impartial examiner assesses each party, the child(ren), and any other necessary collateral sources in order to formulate an opinion as to how parents should share parental responsibility and recommend the best time-sharing arrangement for each parent and the child. After the assessment, the investigator will submit a social investigation report to the Court. The report should include facts regarding all parties and even a parenting plan recommendation to assist the Court in making decisions that are in the best interest of the child(ren) while taking into consideration any special needs of any child(ren) involved.
What is a Parenting Plan?
Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes that governs family matters requires the Court to order a parenting plan in proceedings involving children. A parenting plan is a document created to govern the relationship between the parties relating to the decisions made regarding the minor child(ren). The Parenting Plan contains a detailed time-sharing schedule for the parents and each child. The parenting plan should include any issues concerning the child(ren) such as the child(ren)’s education, health care, social, physical, and emotional well-being.
What Is The Procedure?
The Court may order a social investigation and parenting plan recommendation in several instances:
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Upon the agreement of both parties.
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Upon the request of either party and order approving the request entered by the Court.
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Upon the Court’s motion when the parents do not agree on parental responsibility or time-sharing arrangements for the child(ren).
What Can I Expect From the Social Investigation and Parenting Plan Recommendation?
The areas of assessment may include, but are not limited to any or all of the following:
Interviews with each child, parent, step-parent, or adult in a parenting role. Contact with relevant professionals, such as teachers, doctors and employers. Interviews with objective character references submitted by the parents. Visits to the homes of each parent. Background checks of relevant police and court records. Completion of relevant surveys and questionnaires as requested by the social investigator. Presentation of facts to the Court offering professional opinions as to parental responsibility, and time-sharing arrangements that are in the best interest of the child(ren).
Who Performs Social Investigations and Parenting Plan Recommendations?
Social investigations are performed by professionals licensed by the State of Florida that are qualified to provide the Family Court, the parties, and the parties’ attorneys with impartial and competent recommendations that focus on what is in the best interest of child(ren). They are authorized to conduct social investigations and parenting plan recommendations pursuant to section 61.20 of the Florida Statutes. They have knowledge, training and experience with issues common in family law cases, and they practice in accordance with the highest established standards of professional conduct.
What Are The Costs?
Social investigations range in cost based on the complexity of the case. Cost for private social investigations begin at $2,800 and Court appointed social investigators may provide services to needy persons at a reduced rate. All parties will be expected to contribute to the costs of the social investigation as previously agreed or as determined by the Court as specified in the court order. Additional court appearances, depositions, or proceedings requested by the parties are subject to the investigator's standard fee schedule and shall be paid by the requesting party pursuant to an agreement between the professional and the party. Fees are to be paid at the commencement of the investigation.