Bill > A00532

This bill prohibits courts in New York from ordering or admitting forensic reports in child custody and visitation proceedings. Specifically, the legislation defines a "forensic report" as any evaluation prepared by a "forensic evaluator" that includes recommendations, opinions, or conclusions about child custody or visitation. A "forensic evaluator" is broadly defined to include mental health professionals, probation service employees, child protective service employees, or any other person authorized to perform evaluations to assist the court in custody or visitation determinations. The bill amends multiple sections of the domestic relations law and family court act to implement this prohibition, effectively preventing courts from relying on professional evaluations and expert recommendations in child custody cases. The provisions are designed to restrict the use of forensic evaluations as evidence or decision-making tools in legal proceedings involving child custody and visitation rights. The law will take effect 90 days after it becomes official, giving courts and legal professionals time to adjust to the new restrictions.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A532