Expert Witnesses for Family Law Cases

Parenting capacity assessments

Evaluating a parent’s ability to meet their child’s physical and emotional needs, including their understanding of child development, attachment and the capacity to provide a safe and nurturing environment.

Parental mental health assessments

Assessing the nature and severity of a parent’s mental health difficulties and the likely impact on parenting. We consider conditions such as depression, anxiety, personality disorder, substance misuse and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Litigation capacity assessments

Our psychologists and psychiatrists can assess litigation capacity and advise on any special measures that may be needed to enable a parent to participate in proceedings. Cognitive testing is offered where indicated. We can advise you on whether psychological or psychiatric expertise is more appropriate in individual cases.

Child psychiatric and psychological assessments

Understanding how a child has been affected by mental disorder, family dynamics, trauma or neglect and providing recommendations for support. Our child specialists are skilled at assessing emotional, behavioural and cognitive development.

Parental alienation and domestic violence evaluations

Experts in complex issues such as parental alienation and domestic violence. We assess the dynamics of coercive control and the impact on parent–child relationships.

ADHD and autism spectrum disorder assessments

Providing cognitive assessments for children and parents with ADHD or ASD and explaining how these conditions may affect parenting capacity or child behaviour.

Risk assessments

Considering potential harm to children and proposing measures to ensure their safety.

Recommendations for contact arrangements

Advising on contact plans that promote children’s well‑being and account for their developmental needs.

Expert testimony

Presenting findings in court in a clear and sensitive manner. We always remember that our duty is to assist the court.

Child centred

The child’s welfare is always at the heart of our recommendations. We consider the strengths within families as well as the risks, offering balanced guidance for the court. 

Specialised expertise

Our team includes CAMHS (child and adolescent mental health) and adult specialists as well as forensic psychologists and psychiatrists. We have extensive experience with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and substance misuse reports.

Clear reporting

Our experts translate complex clinical jargon into understandable concepts without losing meaning. Our reports are impartial and adhere to Family Procedure Rules.

Sensitivity

We understand the emotional complexity of family cases and approach every assessment with compassion. Our clinicians have a deep understanding of attachment, child and adult pathology, and family systems, enabling us to offer clear and insightful guidance.