Social Investigation Program

When the court needs more information to decide a parenting plan or time-sharing schedule, a judge or general magistrate may order a social investigation, also called a home study. An impartial, qualified mental health professional completes the investigation and gives the court a written report with recommendations based on the child’s best interests. Family Court Services assigns, coordinates, and monitors each case until the report is complete.

Flat rate: $650

What a Social Investigation Addresses

• Initial parenting time
• Changes to an existing parenting plan
• Each parent’s home environment
• Shared or sole parental responsibility

The Process

1. The court orders a social investigation. The judge or general magistrate signs an Order of Referral to the Social Investigation Program.
2. Register with Family Court Services. Both parties must register with FCS within 10 business days of the order, unless the order gives a different deadline.
3. FCS assigns an investigator. FCS assigns a qualified investigator from its approved provider list and sends both parties the investigator’s contact information.
4. The investigation. The investigator gathers information about each parent and the child.
5. The report. The investigator gives the court and all parties of record a written report with findings and recommendations. The court considers the report when deciding the parenting plan.