Bill > SB1987

This bill requires courts in Tennessee to order a child to be evaluated by a qualified expert in contested custody, dependency and neglect, adoption, and guardianship cases where a guardian ad litem (GAL), a court-appointed representative for the child, is involved, unless the court finds such an examination unnecessary. The expert, who must be a licensed medical doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, licensed professional counselor with mental health service provider designation, or another authorized mental health professional, will submit a sworn report detailing the child's history, current condition, and recommendations for further evaluation or treatment. This report will be considered strong evidence of the child's condition and what is in their best interest, though it can be challenged. The GAL must consider this report when making their own recommendations, and if their recommendation differs significantly, they must explain why. The court will also determine how the costs of these examinations are paid, based on each party's ability to afford them.