Custody battles can feel like a roller coaster, especially when you start hearing acronyms like “CFI” and “PRE” tossed around. If you’re a parent in Colorado, you might be staring at those letters in a court order and thinking, “Wait, who are these people, and are they about to decide my family’s future?”
We get it. It’s nerve-wracking. At Jones Law Firm, P.C., we’ve walked this path with hundreds of Colorado parents, and trust us, you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed. We break down what CFIs and PREs actually do, how their reports impact your case, and how our team helps you handle it all, without losing sleep (or your sanity).
What Is a Child and Family Investigator (CFI)?
Let’s start with CFIs. The official name is “Child and Family Investigator,” but think of them as the court’s neutral detective. Under Colorado law (specifically C.R.S. §14-10-116.5), a CFI is someone, often an attorney, counselor, or trained professional, brought in to help figure out what’s best for your child when parents can’t agree.
What do they actually do?
- Interview everyone from parents, kids, sometimes teachers or relatives.
- Visit homes to see how things run day-to-day.
- Review documents like school records or medical info.
But here’s the thing, CFIs don’t do psychological testing. They’re not there to diagnose anyone. Their job is to get the facts and paint a picture for the judge.
How much does a CFI cost?
Colorado tries to keep things affordable. There’s usually a fee cap of $3250 (though it’s smart to double-check the current rules). That’s a relief for many families, especially when money is tight.
How long does it take?
You’re looking at about 90 to 120 days from the start of the investigation to report. Their recommendations focus on what’s best for your child, not what’s easiest for the parents.
What Is a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator (PRE)?
Now, let’s talk about PREs. If CFIs are the court’s detectives, PREs are more like the full investigative squad, with extra tools. A PRE is always a licensed mental health professional, and they’re brought in for the really complex cases. Think serious accusations such as abuse, addiction, or extreme conflict.
What sets a PRE apart?
- They can order psychological tests, drug screens, and even mental health evaluations.
- They’ll do a deep dive into your parenting history, mental health, and any claims of alienation or abuse.
- They often interview more people and spend more time observing family dynamics.
How much does a PRE cost?
Here’s the catch, there’s no official cap. It’s not unusual for retainers to start at $5,000–$10,000, sometimes more depending on how complicated things get. We know, it’s a big investment, but in some situations, it’s the thoroughness the court needs.
How long does it take?
PREs usually submit their detailed report about 20 days before your hearing. These reports can be pretty in-depth, sometimes dozens of pages long.
CFI vs. PRE: A Quick Side-by-Side
Let’s put it in a table, because who doesn’t love a good side-by-side comparison?
| CFI | PRE | |
| Who | Attorney, counselor, or trained pro | Licensed mental health professional such as a psychologist |
| Scope | Interviews, home visits, docs | All CFI tasks + psych & drug testing |
| Timeline | 90-120 days | Report due 20 days pre-hearing |
| Cost | ~$3250 (capped) | $5,000–$10,000+ (no cap) |
| Report | Concise, fact-based | In-depth, psychological analysis |
| When Used | Most cases | Complex, high-conflict cases |
How Courts Use CFI and PRE Reports
Here’s a question we hear all the time: “Does this report decide my case?” The short answer is, nope! Judges aren’t robots. They’re not required to follow what a CFI or PRE says. But these reports carry a lot of weight. Judges rely on them to cut through the noise and get a clearer picture of what’s really happening.
CFI and PRE reports often shape the court’s temporary or final parenting orders. Especially when there are claims of alienation, abuse, or substance use, evaluators help spot patterns, like if a child is being coached, or if fear of one parent seems exaggerated or unjustified.
Still, the judge is the ultimate decision-maker. Sometimes, they’ll even question or challenge parts of a report right in the courtroom. Having a team like ours at your side can make sure your story gets the context it deserves.
Common Concerns Parents Have
If you’re feeling anxious, you’re not alone. Here are a few worries we hear all the time:
“Will the evaluator believe me?”
It’s normal to feel nervous about being judged. Remember, evaluators look for consistent patterns, not just one-off stories.
“Can I lose custody just from this report?”
Reports matter, but judges look at the whole picture. No single document seals your fate.
“What if I can’t afford a PRE?”
Good news! CFIs are designed to be a more affordable option. Sometimes, the court will go that route if cost is a big concern.
Let us share a quick story: One of our clients, a mom in Denver, was terrified her CFI wouldn’t “get” her situation. We walked her through what to expect, helped her organize her thoughts, and when the report came in, she felt heard and understood. She later told us, “I couldn’t have done it without your team’s support.” That’s what we aim for every time.
How Jones Law Firm, P.C. Supports Clients Through Evaluations
Here’s where we roll up our sleeves. At Jones Law Firm, P.C., we’re not just your legal guides, we’re your partners through what can be an emotional roller coaster.
- Preparation: We explain what’s coming, help you gather your thoughts, and coach you on how to communicate calmly and honestly. No scripts or “coaching”, just real preparation.
- Evidence: We make sure the evaluator sees the full picture. If there’s a pattern of concern, we help you document it. If you’re being unfairly accused, we help clear that up, too.
- Advocacy: Whether it’s presenting the report to the judge or challenging it if it’s off base, we’re with you every step of the way.
“We choose sides. Yours.”
That’s not just a slogan, it’s how we operate, every single day.
With decades of experience and a team that’s ready for anything the courtroom throws at us, you can rest a little easier knowing you’re in good hands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, you and the other parent will usually get a copy before your court date.
Sometimes. The court usually appoints someone, but if both sides agree, you might have a say.
You’re not stuck with it! You can challenge the report in court, cross-examine the evaluator, and present your own evidence.
Look, CFIs and PREs aren’t here to take sides, they’re here to help the court see the bigger picture and make the best decision for your child. We know the process can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right legal team (that’s us!), you can walk into every meeting and hearing feeling prepared, confident, and heard.
If you’re facing a custody evaluation and want support that’s both strategic and genuinely caring, schedule a consultation with Jones Law Firm, P.C.. We’re here to help you tell your story and protect your family’s future.
Want to learn more about parental alienation or meet our attorney team? Check out our resources!
