Zoe Hawthorne-Loizeaux provides Remote Child and Family Investigations utilizing videoconferencing technology.

A Child and Family Investigator (CFI) is a child custody expert, appointed pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes 14-10-116.5. The CFI will conduct a comprehensive investigation of the issues requested by the Judge and then file a written report with recommendations in the best interests of the children. Child and Family Investigations are dependent upon the investigator’s articulation of statutory considerations, competence with multi-faceted data collection, capacity to integrate data into a comprehensive understanding, and ability to craft individualized recommendations.

Research is demonstrating that videoconferencing technology (VC) is as effective as in-person service delivery. VC enables working alliances that foster comfort, trust, and openness. VC eliminates the anxiety of unfamiliar offices and playrooms for home-based interviews and observations. Participants report high satisfaction with VC procedures due to their ability to work with an investigator regardless of the investigator’s location; convenience and comfort of staying in one’s home and work environment; decreased time away from work and school; elimination of travel time; diminished anxiety regarding unfamiliar office and playroom settings; and lowered expenses and costs.

Court orders should appoint Ms. Hawthorne-Loizeaux specifically to conduct a Remote CFI, and note that her testimony will be via WebEx or telephone.