Tips for Child and Family Investigations - Investigator Questions

Are you involved in a divorce or case and are trying to reach an agreement and a Child and Family investigator has been appointed? You are probably feeling a bit overwhelmed at life events and the legal process. The good news is that you can take charge and seek expert assistance. An experienced divorce and child custody attorney can guide you through the child and family investigation process to assist in exploring your options. The investigation process can be complex so a knowledgeable guide is important for success. You have one bite at the apple in the court system so make it count. Educating yourself about investigations is important.

If you are involved in a child and family investigation, here is some general guidance for participation. The CFI will gather information from you, the other parent and third parties. You will usually be asked to complete questionnaires as well as meet with the CFI. The CFI will ask questions during your meeting as well. It is helpful to think through sample questions and prepare for the interview. The questions may relate to you, the other parent, parenting styles, the children and other topics. Here are examples of the type of questions that you may be asked in the course of the investigation:

• How did you and the other parent first meet?
• What attracted you to her/him?
• When did the relationship change and why?
• How did you decide to have children?

• What do you enjoy about being a parent?
• What don’t you like about being a parent?
• Who would you say is an ideal parent? Why?
• Who would you say is the ideal child? Why?
• What role model do you want for your children?
• What characteristics do you want your children not to have as an adult?
• Where did you learn parenting skills?
• What would you change about yourself to be a better parent?
• Do you have an emotional support system? Who or what?

• Describe each child.
• What do you think is the most important lesson you can teach your children?
• What is each child's mental and physical health?
• What do your children enjoy doing?
• What do you think your children are afraid of the most? Why?
• Who are your children’s friends?
• What are the differences in you and the other parent's parenting style?
• What is your biggest concern about each child right now? Why?

• What household rules do you have?
• What rules does each child resist the most?

• What would you change about the other parent's parenting style?
• Overall, what are your thoughts on the other parent's parenting?

• Has the other parent abused alcohol or drugs or engaged in criminal activity? Please explain.
• Have you abused alcohol or drugs or engaged in criminal activity? Please explain.
• Are you afraid of the other parent? Why?
• What is the worst thig that the other parent will say about you?
• Is there anything else that I should know?

A knowledgeable and experienced divorce and family law attorney can guide you through Colorado Springs child and family investigations by negotiating, mediating and litigating. Give yourself the benefit of hiring one. This allows you to focus on moving on to a better future instead of spending your time attempting to navigate complex legal rules and procedures.

Sabra Janko from Janko Family Law Solutions has more than 20 years of legal experience and protects your best interests. She ensures that you are aware of your legal rights and obligations. Contact us at 719-344-5523 for a free 30-minute informational consultation or complete our online form.