There are many reasons to embark on child custody investigations. But the most important is likely to be the protection of your child.
Regrettably couples with children aren't always able to stay together. More regrettably, not all breakups are amicable, and this can lead to bitter fights over the future of any children. Often parents will disagree about the raising of children: where, how, etc.
And most unfortunately of all, there are times when one parent is genuinely fearful for the safety of a child when they are in the care of their former partner.
That's where child custody investigations come in. An investigator can observe the former partner while he or she is in the presence of the children to see if there is any mistreatment.
This precaution can save your child from neglect, abuse, and even death. Is your former partner an alcoholic or drug addict? Could these facts endanger your children and are child custody investigations warranted?
There are a variety of ways an investigator can monitor the experience of a child when he or she is with your former spouse or partner.
Surveillance is probably the most common approach, but video and audio surveillance are also very useful in some child custody investigations.
An investigator can also gather evidence about the parent's general behaviour, even when they are not with the child or children.
Do they drink excessively, drive dangerously, or engage in criminal conduct? All these questions are critical in determining how safe your children are with the other parent.
And in the event that some of this evidence has to come out in court, having child custody investigations done will increase the credibility of your fears. You'll have a solid professional with an impeccable reputation to back them up.
Some child custody investigations are necessary because one of the parents is ignoring his or her legal obligations to provide child support. That parent may be claiming an inability to pay.
But are they telling the truth? Child custody investigations can determine the real situation. And, again, if the findings must be brought to court, having an investigator present to confirm the information will carry a lot more weight than just an unfounded accusation.
If the parent won't pay or has disappeared, then child custody investigations can involve asset searches or even missing person searches to ensure that the person who is required to provide the support does so.
There are many steps you can take to avoid conflict with your ex-spouse over your children. And the better prepared you are, the fewer problems you'll have.
When a marriage is breaking up, make sure you have a good lawyer and that everything that's agreed on is in writing. Despite the acrimony, do your best to keep the lines of communication open for the benefit of your children. The more amicable the situation is, the better for everyone.
But there will be times when, despite all precautions, child custody investigations may be necessary.