Cultural and Religious Factors Affecting Custody Evaluations

This program will help practitioners understand and manage the religious and cultural issues that may arise in a custody matter, including the applicable law and recent court decisions. Taught by a matrimonial attorney and forensic psychologist, this course will discuss both the legal and mental health concerns and perspectives involved, as well as the weight that the court and forensic evaluator give to these factors in custody evaluations.

The presenters will also introduce fact patterns and use these factors to analyze the important considerations and potential outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

1. Discuss the type of religious and cultural conflicts that may arise during a divorce and custody proceeding
2. Navigate these issues in the the context of the legal system
3. Review best practices for advising clients in a contested proceeding on their rights and responsibilities with regards to religious or cultural practices and custody arrangements