Avoiding Bias in Relocation Cases

SUMMARY

Bias is a risk in all family law matters, for judges, custody evaluators, mediators, and attorneys. This paper is focused on particular risks as they relate to relocation matters. A description of various types of risk is followed by ways to reduce or minimize the risk of bias in these cases. Ultimately, this author will suggest a protocol that evaluators and judges can use when reaching conclusions about whether or not to allow a parent who wishes to relocate to be able to take the child with him/her.

KEYWORDS:

• Bias
• relocation
• child custody evaluations
• move-away