Risk Management for Psychologist Parenting

CoordinatorsMatthew J. Sullivan, Ph.D.

APA, 2008

Risky Business The Legal/Psychological Hybrid Role

Demanding specialized knowledge and skill in legal domains

Legal procedure, relevant case law, legal writing Demanding specialized knowledge and skill in

psychological domains H-C family systems, child development, etc.

Dispute Resolution mediation, settlement processes, arbitration,

Two PC Stories The Santa Clara County experience (1998-

2000) A California Psychologist PC (2006-8)

Sullivan, M.J., Ethical, Legal and Professional Practice Issues Involved in Practicing as a Psychologist Parent Coordinator

in Child Custody Cases, FCR, 42 (3) 2004

Multiple Review Agencies Legal

Court review Judicial codes

Psychological Professional licensing boards

Board of consumer affairs Professional organizations

APA ethics committee

Multiple Standards Legal

Grievances, Appeals Legislation

Psychological APA Forensic Specialty, APA Ethics, PC standards

(forthcoming) AFCC PC guidelines Licensing standards

Common areas of Risk Informed Consent Multiple Roles Competence Record Keeping Due process (legal) Impartiality/Bias - procedural, substantive

Risk Management for the PC Practitioner Court-sanctioned Role

Quasi-judicial immunity Qualified and Competent Consultation Case load, self-care Maximum Liability coverage