Professional Consultation

Case Consultation for
Family Law Professionals

Substance-use expertise to inform effective case strategy.

Substance-related family-law cases often raise complex questions. Is an evaluation necessary? What form of testing or monitoring is appropriate? Will the proposed plan produce information that can be reliably interpreted?

When these questions are not addressed at the outset, monitoring plans may generate incomplete information, unnecessary disputes, or expenses that do not advance the case.

Drawing upon more than 30 years of experience in substance use and family law matters, I provide consultation to attorneys, mediators, collaborative professionals, and other family law professionals at any stage of a case.

Areas of Consultation

Consultation for case strategy

Determining whether a substance use evaluation is indicated
Developing case strategy proportionate to the available information and level of concern
Determining whether testing alone can adequately address the identified concerns
Selecting an abstinence-verification method appropriate to the substance of concern, alleged pattern of use, and objectives of the case
Structuring Soberlink monitoring or random drug testing to produce reliable and interpretable results
Developing clear language for stipulations or proposed court orders
Independently reviewing an existing evaluation, including its methodology, findings, and recommendations
Reviewing Soberlink records for missed tests, testing irregularities, and other patterns relevant to compliance
Determining whether consultation with another specialist would be beneficial
Developing examination questions for trial

Additional Consultation Roles

Private assessment and collaborative consultation

Private assessment

When appropriate, I may privately assess a client to help counsel evaluate the reliability and stability of the client’s reported abstinence, better understand possible substance use concerns, and identify appropriate next steps.

The purpose of the assessment, the limits of confidentiality, and the intended use of the resulting information are established in advance. This distinction is important when determining whether my role is to advise counsel or conduct a neutral evaluation.

Collaborative consultation

I am also available to participate as a substance-use consultant in collaborative family law matters. In this role, I assist the professional team in evaluating available information and developing recommendations that are clinically informed, practical, and proportionate to the circumstances of the family.

Discuss the Case Before Selecting a Service

Request a Case Consultation

A preliminary consultation can help identify the appropriate next step before a referral, stipulation, or monitoring plan is finalized.