Last Updated: February 2026
Whether you're an attorney seeking expert consultation or a parent facing a high-conflict custody battle, Dr. Tolbert provides clear, compassionate guidance to protect what matters most, your children
Engaging Dr. Kristin Tolbert begins with a confidential case assessment to identify the right collaboration model. She serves family law attorneys needing behind-the-scenes forensic psychology expertise under attorney-client privilege, and families navigating high-conflict custody matters through their legal counsel. Engagement terms are discussed during the confidential case review and are structured around case complexity and scope.
Behind-the-scenes litigation consulting and expert witness testimony to strengthen your case strategy in high-conflict custody matters.
Direct consultation and guidance when you're facing manipulation, parental alienation, or unjust custody evaluations.
Dr. Tolbert's approach is methodical, evidence-based, and built around the unique dynamics of your situation. Whether working with your legal team or consulting with you directly, you'll have a strategic partner who understands both the psychological complexities and legal nuances of high-conflict custody matters.
Timeline: Varies by case complexity
Begin with a brief, confidential discussion to understand your case challenges. This can be a quick phone call or email exchange to determine if Dr. Tolbert's expertise aligns with your needs.
What You'll Need:
Deliverable:
Timeline: Varies by case complexity
Once engaged, you'll provide relevant case materials for Dr. Tolbert's thorough review. All documents are handled with strict confidentiality, and if engaged as a consultant, protected under attorney-client privilege.
Typical Documents Reviewed:
Deliverable:
Timeline: Varies by case complexity
Dr. Tolbert conducts a careful analysis of all materials, identifying psychological patterns, methodological flaws in existing evaluations, and strategic opportunities for your case.
Analysis Includes:
Deliverable:
Timeline: Varies based on case needs and court schedule
As your case approaches trial or critical hearings, Dr. Tolbert provides intensive support to make sure you're fully prepared to present psychological evidence effectively.
Preparation Services:
Deliverable:
Timeline: Day of Trial/Hearing + Post-Trial Support
If engaged as an expert witness, Dr. Tolbert provides compelling, evidence-based testimony that withstands rigorous cross-examination. She presents complex psychological concepts in clear, persuasive language that resonates with judges and juries.
Testimony Services:
Deliverable:
Dr. Tolbert offers flexible engagement options for attorneys and families
Tier 1: Strategic Case Consulting
Protected Under Attorney-Client Privilege
Work with Dr. Tolbert confidentially as your strategic partner. All analysis, insights, and communications remain protected and non-discoverable.
Best For:
Tier 3: Court-Ready Expert Opinion
Courtroom-Ready Expert Opinion
Draw on Dr. Tolbert's extensive courtroom testimony experience and qualifications in 5 states for powerful, evidence-based expert witness testimony.
Best For:
Strategic Guidance for Complex Matters
Direct Support for Parents in Crisis
If you're a parent facing a high-conflict custody battle, Dr. Tolbert can provide direct consultation to help you understand what's happening and guide you toward effective solutions.
Best For:
For Attorneys: Choose consulting for strategic guidance protected under privilege, or expert witness services for courtroom testimony. These are separate engagements. Dr. Tolbert does not transition between roles, as this compromises objectivity and risks making privileged communications discoverable. For Parents: Direct consultation helps you understand the psychological dynamics of your case and helps you work more effectively with your attorney. Dr. Tolbert can discuss the best approach for your specific situation during the initial consultation.
Dr. Tolbert specializes exclusively in high-conflict child custody matters. You're not working with a generalist. You're partnering with an expert who has seen every manipulation tactic, alienation pattern, and personality dynamic in family law.
Every opinion, recommendation, and testimony is grounded in rigorous psychological research, forensic best practices, and empirical evidence. No speculation, only scientifically supported insights.
Whether working under attorney-client privilege or as an expert witness, Dr. Tolbert maintains the highest standards of confidentiality and ethical practice in accordance with professional standards.
High-conflict custody cases move quickly. Dr. Tolbert understands the urgency and maintains responsive communication throughout the engagement, making sure you have the insights you need when you need them.
With extensive expert testimony experience and qualifications in 5 states, Dr. Tolbert brings unparalleled credibility to the courtroom. Her testimony withstands even the most aggressive cross-examination.
Dr. Tolbert works collaboratively with attorneys and directly with parents, making sure psychological insights strengthen your legal strategy and help you protect your children.
Whether you're an attorney seeking expert consultation or a parent facing a crisis, start with a confidential case assessment. There's no obligation, just an honest evaluation of how Dr. Tolbert's forensic psychology expertise can help protect what matters most.