Minnesota family courts are seeing an increasing trend in the use of Brief Focused Assessments (BFA) to assist in custody and parenting time disputes. As families navigate complex custody issues, courts and attorneys are seeking alternatives to traditional custody evaluations that are more efficient, cost-effective, and tailored to specific concerns. This article explores what a Brief Focused Assessment is, what participants can expect during the process, and how it differs from a traditional custody evaluation.

What Is a Brief Focused Assessment?

A Brief Focused Assessment (BFA) is a targeted, time-limited evaluation used in family court cases to address specific concerns related to custody or parenting time. Unlike a full custody evaluation, which provides comprehensive recommendations on all aspects of a parenting arrangement, a BFA is designed to resolve a particular issue or dispute within a shorter timeframe.

BFAs are often ordered by the court or requested by the parties when there is a specific question or concern that needs expert analysis, such as:

• Allegations of parental alienation
• Concerns about a parent’s mental health or substance use
• Relocation disputes
• Parenting time concerns, such as whether a certain schedule is in the child’s best interest
• Issues related to a child’s preference for living arrangements

By narrowing the focus, a BFA allows the evaluator to conduct a streamlined inquiry into the matter at hand, reducing the cost and duration compared to a traditional custody evaluation.

What to Expect During a Brief Focused Assessment

A BFA typically involves several key steps, though the exact process can vary depending on the evaluator and the specific issues being assessed. Generally, participants can expect the following:

1. Initial Intake and Scope Definition:
   • The evaluator meets with both parents and possibly their attorneys to define the specific issue the assessment will address.
   • The evaluator clarifies the scope of their inquiry and the methodology they will use.
2. Interviews and Information Gathering:
   • The evaluator conducts interviews with both parents and, when appropriate, the child(ren).
   • Additional interviews may be conducted with relevant third parties, such as teachers, medical professionals, or family members.
   • Parents may be asked to provide documentation, such as school records, therapy reports, or communications relevant to the issue.
3. Home Observations (if applicable):
   • Depending on the nature of the dispute, the evaluator may observe the child in each parent’s home to assess interactions and the living environment.
4. Collateral Contacts and Document Review:
   • The evaluator may reach out to professionals or individuals who have insight into the matter, such as therapists, teachers, or child protection workers.
   • Court documents, psychological assessments, and other relevant records are reviewed.
5. Analysis and Report Preparation:
   • The evaluator analyzes the collected data, applies relevant psychological and legal standards, and formulates findings based on the best interests of the child.
   • A written report is prepared summarizing the findings and providing recommendations to the court or the parties.
6. Presentation of Findings:
   • The final report is submitted to the court and the involved parties.
   • The evaluator may testify in court if necessary to explain their findings and recommendations.

How a Brief Focused Assessment Differs from a Traditional Custody Evaluation

A Brief Focused Assessment differs from a traditional custody evaluation in several key ways:

BFAs are particularly beneficial in situations where a full custody evaluation may be unnecessary, cost-prohibitive, or too time-consuming. They provide judges with expert insight while allowing families to resolve disputes more efficiently.

The Growing Trend in Minnesota

The increasing use of BFAs in Minnesota reflects a shift toward efficiency in family court proceedings. Courts are recognizing that not all custody disputes require a full evaluation and that in many cases, a BFA provides sufficient information to make informed decisions. This trend is driven by several factors:

• Judicial Preference for Quicker Resolutions: Judges prefer timely solutions that minimize ongoing litigation and conflict.
• Cost Considerations: Traditional custody evaluations can be prohibitively expensive, making BFAs a more affordable option.
• Child-Centered Decision-Making: BFAs allow for quicker resolutions that reduce stress on children caught in custody disputes.
• Attorney and Mediator Recommendations: Family law professionals are increasingly recommending BFAs to resolve disputes efficiently without the need for a full-scale evaluation.

Conclusion

As Minnesota courts continue to evolve in their approach to custody and parenting time disputes, the Brief Focused Assessment has emerged as a valuable tool for resolving specific conflicts efficiently and effectively. Parents involved in custody disputes should consider whether a BFA may be an appropriate option in their case, especially if they need an expert opinion on a targeted issue without the burden of a full custody evaluation.

If you are facing a custody or parenting time dispute and believe a BFA may be beneficial, consult with a family law attorney to discuss whether this approach aligns with your needs and legal strategy. As the trend continues to grow, BFAs are likely to become an increasingly common tool in Minnesota’s family courts, helping families achieve resolutions that prioritize the best interests of their children.