FAQs

How do I get the process started?

A Focus Assessment (FA) is typically initiated by one party and their attorney, by stipulation between both parties, or by Court order. However, Dr. DiCarlo must be officially appointed by the Court before the process can begin.

Because Dr. DiCarlo begins only one evaluation per month, it is important to confirm his availability before seeking Court appointment. There may be a waitlist.

All inquiries should be directed to Dr. DiCarlo’s forensic case manager, Kelli Benavides.

How much does this service cost?

Costs for an FA depend on several factors, including:

• Number of caregivers and children involved

• Nature and complexity of the referral question

• Cooperation of the parties and legal teams

An advance fee of $7,000 is required to initiate the process. The Court determines the cost-sharing arrangement (e.g., 50/50 between parents). Dr. DiCarlo bills at his standard forensic rate of $375/hour.

Final costs often exceed the advance, and additional funds may be needed to complete the evaluation. Forensic assistants may be used to control costs. Expert testimony (e.g., depositions or court appearances) is not included in the evaluation fee and is billed separately.

What does the evaluation include?

While every case is unique, most FAs include:

• 30-minute consultation with attorneys

• 2–3 hours of clinical interviews with each parent

• 1 hour of interview time with each child

• Psychological testing (if relevant to the referral question)

• 5+ hours of record review

• 6+ hours of report writing

These procedures may vary depending on the specific scope defined in the Court’s appointment order.

How long does the process take?

Most Focus Assessments are completed within 2–3 months, depending on:

• Complexity of the referral question

• Access to records and collateral information

• Availability and cooperation of parties

Dr. DiCarlo generally aims to complete the final report within 90 days of the initial parent interviews.

How should we communicate with Dr. DiCarlo?

To protect neutrality and maintain the integrity of the process:

• Parents/litigants must not contact Dr. DiCarlo directly before or during the evaluation.

• All scheduling or procedural inquiries should go through Kelli Benavides, forensic case manager.

• Parties and attorneys should not submit unsolicited documents or case information unless specifically requested.

• No case facts or allegations should be shared unless both parties or their representatives are informed or present.

Unilateral communication risks compromising the objectivity of the evaluation.

Does Dr. DiCarlo make recommendations during the process?

No. Dr. DiCarlo does not provide recommendations until the final written report is complete.

Please do not seek legal advice, therapeutic input, or informal feedback during the evaluation. Questions regarding parenting time, legal decision-making, or implementation of Court orders should be addressed with your attorney.