Child custody evaluations become significantly more complex when intimate partner violence (IPV/DV) is alleged, suspected, or confirmed.

Evaluators must balance safety concerns, objectivity, and comprehensive assessment while navigating conflicting information in a highly charged legal and social environment. The stakes are high, as outcomes directly affect the safety and development of children and the well-being of families.

This 2025 IPV annual update training provides evaluators with a framework for understanding IPV within custody disputes. Participants will explore theories of power dynamics in intimate relationships, examine supporting social science research, and review how IPV is addressed in legal contexts. The course also highlights the role of cultural constructions of gender identity, roles, and privilege in shaping evaluations.

Emphasis is placed on practical application. Participants will learn strategies for case management, data collection, analysis of diverse information, and the creation of parenting plans centered on safety. By course end, evaluators will gain deeper understanding, improved confidence, and an expanded skillset for addressing IPV in custody evaluations.