Hello,

A 730 Eval in California, a child custody evaluation or "730 Evaluation", can be described as an in-depth study and analysis of the "family, it's members, and/or prospective members", and their relationship. The evaluation is carried out by an "evaluator" with the intent of determining a family structure that would be in the best interest of the child.

The evaluation usually takes place over a period of time set out by the judge or evaluator (sometimes weeks and sometimes months) and includes a recommendation for what would be in the best interest of the child or children, which the court is inclined to go along with. The evaluator can be called into court to testify, either to defend or explain the recommendations and sometimes, will be ordered to conduct a further study into the matter.

Also, in some jurisdictions, a "mini-evaluation" can be ordered. It is referred to as "mini" because it is less extensive than the typical evaluation. This may be requested to speed up things, or when the scope of the evaluation can be reduced such as when the court wants to know the answer to a particular question. I would recommend consulting with your attorney in regards XX X "mini-evaluation" because if there are any issues that are significant to your case that requires a more in-depth look or study, it would be highly unlikely this would surface or enough compelling evidence will be even examined in such a short period of time.

Under obligation to the court, at the end of the evaluation, the evaluator will summarize their work, findings, and recommendations, and submit a written report to the judge.

In legal terms, California Evidence Code Section §730 states:

When it appears to the court, at any time before or during the trial of an action, that expert evidence is or may be required by the court or by any party to the action, the court on its own motion or on motion of any party may appoint one or more experts to investigate, to render a report as may be ordered by the court, and to testify as an expert at the trial of the action relative to the fact or matter as to which the expert evidence is or may be required. The court may fix the compensation for these services, if any, rendered by any person appointed under this section, in addition to any service as a witness, at the amount as seems reasonable to the court. Nothing in this section shall be construed to permit a person to perform any act for which a license is required unless the person holds the appropriate license to lawfully perform that act.

What is involved in a 730 Evaluation?
In most cases, a 730 evaluation will consist of several interviews as well as psychological testing. Interviews are conducted with all adults involved with the child, including parents, stepparents and sometimes other relatives who have significant roles in the child's life. Psychological testing provides an additional source of information that cannot be obtained through interviews alone.

Some psychologists do their own psychological testing, while others will refer that portion of the evaluation to a professional who is experienced in psychological assessment. The testing is done to describe the personalities and family dynamics, and to find any potential mental health or parenting problems.


In special circumstances, a custody evaluation may involve visits to the home, often called a "home visit", and/or school. These are not always necessary and in some cases can be initiated by the request of one or both of the parents.

They will ask questions to see whether you know all about child care, discipline, education of the child, and so on. They want to see if you would stand in the way of contact with the other parent, and whether you would spend quality time with the child, or pawn the child off on your mother or sister, or girlfriend. Also, they might watch you with your child to see how you interact.

I'll check back later to see if you have any questions.