Social Investigations/ Home Studies

As a Psychotherapist licensed under 491, Florida Statutes, I am trained and legally qualified to conduct Social Investigations and Home Studies where issues of child custody are in dispute. My role as a Social Investigator is to remain impartial and neutral as I endeavor to analyze and assess the many individual and family factors impacting child development. The goal of a Social Investigation is to assist the Court in making a decision in the very best interest of your child(ren). My purpose is to evaluate the psychological, developmental and emotional needs of each child, the parenting capacity of each prospective custodian, and the functional ability of each parent to meet the complicated needs of each child. The wishes of your child(ren), where appropriate, will also be considered. I will give each parent ample opportunity to contribute pertinent information, communicate any concerns, and demonstrate the nature of your relationship with your child(ren). I will also consider your current living, financial, employment, health, and other circumstances, as well as speak with any collateral contacts you believe would be helpful to my investigation. At the conclusion of this process, I will prepare a written report for the Court and your respective attorneys outlining my findings and the rationale for any professional recommendations given. My investigation will be conducted to the highest professional and ethical standards, and will be free from discriminatory bias based upon age, gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, language, culture or socioeconomic status.

Typically, Social Investigations are ordered by the Court and assigned to a specific Social Investigator. If both parties agree to engage in a Social Investigation, and agree on an Investigator, the process can begin without a specific court order. In either case, Court assignment or private agreement, download, complete and sign the Social Investigation Forms. To begin a Social Investigation, I require a $2500.00 refundable retainer, split as the parties agree, a Court order assigning the investigation to me, if so ordered, and all completed paperwork. You will be contacted by my office to schedule an appointment.

If you have additional questions not covered in the FAQ section of this site, or if you prefer to schedule via phone, please call my office at 813.988.4788. For more personal questions or concerns, please use my confidential email at Kerry@bkerrybrown.com.


Copyright © B. Kerry Brown, LCSW, MSW, CBA, 07/2005