Get involved in the research
Our research needs people, not just data. Three studies are recruiting right now — one for young people, one for the parents who have been through family court with them, and one for the attorneys who represent them. Here is who each is for, what it asks of you, and how to start.
Three studies, three ways in
Every study below is open today. You do not need a background in research or a perfect memory of what happened — you need to fit the eligibility, and to be willing to tell us the truth about your experience.
If more than one describes you, take part in more than one. If none of them does, join the newsletter at the bottom of this page — it is how we announce a new way in.
A conversation, illustrated
We are asking children directly what being seen, heard, and understood by adults actually looks like. A parent or guardian enrolls the child, and is welcome to stay.
- Who it is for — youth ages 5–17, enrolled by a parent or guardian
- What it takes — a 30–90 minute virtual interview; length varies with age and developmental stage
- Who is in the room — parents or guardians are welcome to observe
- What you keep — each interview is artistically illustrated, and participants receive a copy of their custom artwork
Have you had a custody case in family court?
We are inviting parents involved in a custody case within the past five years to take part in a virtual survey about their experiences. You can participate anonymously, or opt in to share more about yourself.
- Be at least 18 years or older
- Have at least one dependent child
- Have had a custody case in family court
Are you a Maryland attorney?
CVP’s Child Advocate Attorneys contribute the majority of data for this study, and we are inviting additional attorneys to participate.
- Who it is for — Best Interest Attorneys and Child-Directed Attorneys practicing in St. Mary’s or Charles County, Maryland
- What it takes — quarterly surveys and in-depth interviews, over a minimum two-year data collection period
- What we analyze — publicly available court records, alongside what you tell us
- Oversight — the evaluation is IRB-approved and ongoing
Not sure whether you are eligible, or want to ask something before you commit? Email research@childsvoiceproject.org. A person answers.
Connect with the Child’s Voice Project
Have a question, want to volunteer, or hope to bring child-centered representation to your court? We’d love to hear from you.
Join our newsletter.
The latest news from the Child’s Voice Project, a few times a year.