What is the DSM V and how does it come into play in Child Custody cases?

Think the Other Side of your Child Custody case is crazy? They just might be. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition) is a classification system of mental health disorders developed by the American Psychiatric Association. It provides diagnostic criteria and descriptions for various mental health conditions and is widely used by mental health professionals for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.

In child custody cases, the DSM-5 may be used as a reference by mental health professionals, who are often called upon to assess the mental health of the parents and make recommendations regarding custody and parenting time arrangements. The information obtained from a DSM-5 evaluation can be used to inform the court's decision about what is in the best interests of your child and may help the court to determine whether you or the Other Side is best suited to have sole physical custody of your child. However, it is important to note that the DSM-5 is just one of many factors that a court may consider when making a child custody determination in your case.

If you would like to learn more about how you, as a Committed Parent or Caring Relative, can stand up for yourself and be more effective in your Child Custody, Divorce, DHR or Adoption case, will you CLICK HERE to schedule your initial consultation at one of our offices?

This article contains general information and should not be construed as legal advice for you and or your unique situation. ~SW, Foxtrot