Bill > A05143

This bill establishes comprehensive guidelines for forensic evaluations in child custody and visitation proceedings across multiple areas of New York law. The bill defines "court ordered evaluators" as mental health professionals, probation services, child protective services, or other authorized entities conducting court-ordered evaluations. The key provisions include making forensic reports confidential but accessible to all parties, their attorneys, and the attorney for the child, with specific rules about document access and disclosure. Parties and their attorneys will have the right to receive the full forensic report, including underlying notes, test data, and other materials, subject to certain legal provisions. The bill also establishes that willful failure to comply with court orders regarding these reports can be considered contempt of court, potentially resulting in fines or imprisonment. Additionally, the admissibility of forensic reports into evidence will be subject to objection and cross-examination, ensuring that all parties have an opportunity to challenge the evaluator's findings. The bill aims to balance confidentiality with transparency and fairness in child custody evaluation processes, with specific provisions to accommodate language access and disability needs.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5143