This bill amends existing law regarding child custody proceedings in Louisiana by introducing provisions for court-ordered mental health evaluations and child custody evaluations. It allows the court to order these evaluations for good cause and specifies that they must be conducted by licensed mental health professionals. The bill outlines the qualifications required for these professionals, including the necessity for training in domestic abuse cases. Additionally, it establishes guidelines for the costs associated with these evaluations, stating that the court may allocate costs based on the parties' ability to pay and may reserve the right to reallocate costs upon conclusion of the case.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and fairness in the evaluation process. It prohibits ex parte communications between litigants and evaluators unless authorized, ensuring that all parties are informed of communications. The bill also sets forth evidentiary restrictions for both mental health and child custody evaluations, including the requirement for compliance with the Code of Evidence and the right for all parties to access the evaluator's file. Notably, it ensures that indigent parents have the same rights as non-indigent parents regarding depositions and challenges to the evaluator's findings. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integrity and reliability of evaluations in custody proceedings.

Statutes affected:
HB236 Original:
HB236 Engrossed:
HB236 Reengrossed:
HB236 Enrolled:
HB236 Act :