Intake & Agreement
After court appointment or private contact, an initial contract and questionnaire clarify the scope and collect basic background information.
The process
Clear steps from intake to final report
The exact scope depends on the appointment and family circumstances, but most full investigations follow these seven stages.
Retainer & Billing
Once the agreement is signed, the retainer is collected and billing proceeds at the agreed hourly rate. Applicable travel charges are detailed in the agreement. Contact the office directly for current fee information.
Interviews
Individual interviews may include each parent, the child when appropriate, extended family, school staff, service providers, and others with relevant information.
Home Visits
Home visits provide an opportunity to observe the child’s environment and parent-child interactions. Visits may be announced or unannounced depending on the matter.
Records Review
Relevant school, law-enforcement, medical, court, and service-provider records are requested and reviewed to develop a fuller picture of the family’s circumstances.
Report Writing
Information is evaluated through North Dakota’s 13 best-interest factors and organized into a thorough written report for the court or parties, depending on the assignment.
Follow-Up or Testimony
If needed, findings may be clarified, supplemented, or presented through testimony when the matter proceeds to trial.
Important: Each investigation is individualized. The order, depth, and timing of activities may change based on court direction, available records, safety considerations, and the needs of the child.