Custody cases can be complex, especially when specific issues like a parent’s mental health, substance use, or disputes about a child’s needs come into play. To help address these situations efficiently, Texas family law courts sometimes turn to a tool called a Brief Focused Evaluation (BFE). Recently, Rachael Griffith, Managing Partner at Griffith Law Office, attended advanced training in Corpus Christi to stay at the forefront of this practice, enhancing our team’s ability to help families navigate these targeted assessments.
What Is a Brief Focused Evaluation (BFE)?
Think of a BFE as a “mini” custody evaluation. Unlike a full custody assessment, which looks at a range of parenting and family dynamics, a BFE zooms in on a specific issue the court is concerned about. BFEs are designed to be quicker and more cost-effective, making them a practical option for resolving particular questions or concerns within a custody case.
When Are BFEs Used?
BFEs are used when the court needs information on a narrowly defined issue. Here are some common examples where a BFE might be useful:
1.Mental Health and Stability: If a parent has a known mental health diagnosis, such as Bipolar Disorder, the court might want to assess whether they are stable and managing their condition appropriately. A BFE can look at whether the parent is following their treatment plan and how their mental health may impact their child.
2.Substance Use: If there are concerns about substance use, a BFE can examine a parent’s history, any current issues, and the potential effect on their parenting abilities. In some cases, the court may also order drug testing alongside a BFE to get a clear picture of the situation.
3.Special Needs or Educational Disputes: When parents disagree on the care or educational needs of a special needs child, a BFE can be a way to assess the situation, consult with relevant professionals, and make recommendations.
4.Resist/Refuse Dynamics: In cases where a child resists or refuses contact with one parent, a BFE can help identify the underlying reasons. This evaluation might consider each parent’s actions, the child’s own needs, and any outside influences affecting the relationship.
5.Co-Parenting and Home Environment: When co-parenting conflicts arise, the court can use a BFE to understand each parent’s role in the conflict. Evaluators may also assess the home environments to provide a clear comparison if a child’s living situation is in question.
Texas Law and BFEs
Under Texas family law, BFEs provide the court with specific insights to help make decisions about custody and visitation. However, it’s important to note that Texas law limits BFEs to well-defined questions. If multiple issues or broader family dynamics need evaluation, a full custody assessment may be more appropriate. The law ensures that evaluators maintain scientific standards in conducting BFEs to make sure the findings are reliable and helpful to the court.
Why a BFE Might Be Right for Your Case
BFEs can be appealing because they are more focused, quicker to complete, and generally less costly than full custody evaluations. However, they’re only a good fit if the issue is narrow. If there are several areas of concern, or if the questions at hand are complex, a full evaluation may provide the more comprehensive insight that the court requires.
Working with Griffith Law Office
At Griffith Law Office, we understand that custody matters can be stressful and emotional. Rachael Griffith and our team are dedicated to providing informed guidance, and our recent training in Corpus Christi further strengthens our commitment to supporting families through BFEs and other family law challenges. Whether you’re considering a BFE or a full custody evaluation, we can help you understand what’s best for your unique situation and guide you every step of the way.
If you have questions about BFEs, or if you’re facing custody concerns, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you make informed decisions that protect your family’s future.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, please consult with a qualified attorney.
