What is SENE?
SENE is a process where a neutral panel of experienced family law professionals listens to both parents and gives an evaluation about how a judge would likely rule on custody, parenting time, and child-related issues. The panel’s feedback is not binding but can help parents understand the strength of their position and make informed choices about settling the case or going to trial. SENE is designed to happen early in a case, but it can be used at any point after a case is filed.
What happens in a session?
Sessions are held at Kids First and last 3 to 4 hours. Both parents (and their lawyers, if represented) attend together.
-
Each parent has 30 minutes to share their perspective in a respectful setting.
-
Each parent then has 10 minutes to respond to what the other parent said.
-
The panel asks questions, then takes a break to confer privately.
-
The panel shares their informed opinion on likely case outcomes with the parents.
-
Parents may then decide to negotiate terms with the panel serving as mediators.
-
The evaluators can draft a memorandum summarizing any agreements.
Who are the evaluators?
The Kids First evaluators are skilled family law professionals with a combined 75 years of professional experience. A multidisciplinary panel with an attorney and mental health professional provides parents with the most comprehensive assessment. Fae Hoover or Jenny Schulz will serve as the panel’s attorney evaluator. Mediator and licensed therapist Laura Martin serves as the mental health evaluator. The evaluators listen to both parents and give feedback but do not make final decisions about the case.
What about the children?
Children ages 9 to 17 may meet with a separate Kids First attorney before the session to share their feelings. Their input is only conveyed to the parents with the child’s permission. Children do not attend the SENE session. Parents can agree to keep their children out of the process, but including a child’s perspective can be informative and help children feel heard.
Why choose SENE?
-
Provides a neutral and informed opinion on the likely case outcome.
-
Offers an efficient use of time and money.
-
Parents determine the direction of their case.
-
Builds a foundation for cooperative co-parenting after the case is resolved.
-
Children benefit when parents agree on custody and parenting time.
-
In Minnesota, SENE has a 74% settlement rate and has been used for 20 years.
How much does it cost?
Kids First’s flat fee is $800. The fee is divided equally between parents unless they agree otherwise. This covers the evaluators’ preparation time, the SENE session, and drafting of any memorandum. The fee also includes a Kids First attorney’s time to interview the child/ren beforehand.
How do parents sign up?
Parents, their attorney, or the court can request an SENE session. To schedule or ask questions, call Laura Martin at Kids First at (319) 365-5437 or submit this form via email to lauramartin@kidsfirstiowa.org.