In Connecticut, when disputes arise concerning custody and visitation, the court often involves the Family Relations Office. Serving as a supportive arm of the judiciary, the office's chief responsibility is to aid the court in resolving custody-related issues. In some instances, the Family Relations Office also helps the court to determine arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the children involved. Located within the courthouse, this office is staffed by professionals who focus on family-related matters.
The extent of the Family Relations Office's involvement varies with each case. For instance, a judge might request the office to mediate a specific issue in a brief session, whereas more intricate cases may require a detailed study involving both custody and visitation. Such comprehensive evaluations can span several weeks or even months.
During a full evaluation, the Family Relations Office is tasked with assessing the matter at hand to propose a resolution that aligns with the child's best interests. This can include initial custody disputes, post-judgment requests for modifying parenting plans, or proposed relocations. While the evaluation is ongoing, court proceedings are typically paused, and trials are not scheduled until the completion of the Family Relations Office's investigation and the submission of their report.
The assigned Family Relations Officer conducts thorough interviews with involved parties, such as the parents, children, physicians, mental health professionals, and educators. The objective is to gather comprehensive information about the situation, enabling the officer to draft a well-informed recommendation for the court. While the recommendation is shared with the parties, it will only be presented in court if an agreement cannot be reached, necessitating a trial.
Contact Us
If you have any questions relating to the Family Relations Office or custody and visitation matters generally, or wish to consult an attorney regarding a legal matter, please contact Joseph C. Maya and the attorneys at Maya Murphy, P.C. at (203) 221-3100 or Jmaya@mayalaw.com to arrange a free initial consultation.
