Psychosocial expertise at the Québec Superior Court regarding child custody

A psychosocial assessment is a comprehensive and impartial evaluation of a child’s family situation when custody or access rights are disputed between parents, grandparents or other parties. The assessment is conducted by a member of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec (OPQ) or the Ordre professionnel des travailleurs sociaux du Québec (OPTSQ), which evaluates the child’s needs as well as the capacities and resources of the parents involved.

The assessment takes into account:

  • the developmental needs of the child or children;
  • the parents’ wishes, interests and abilities;
  • the strengths, vulnerabilities and needs of all family members;
  • family interactions.
     

The primary goal is to provide the court, parents and lawyers with information and objective recommendations in the best interests of the children. The mandate to conduct a psychosocial assessment is ordered by a Superior Court judge.