A home study is an investigation of a person’s background, household, and ability to care for a child.
Home studies are most common in adoption and foster-care proceedings. In a disputed parenting case, a court may also order an investigation that includes an assessment of one or both parents’ homes.
Depending on the type of case, it may be conducted by a child welfare agency or another qualified professional appointed or approved by the court. If you’re facing a home study in 2026, a Cook County, IL family law attorney can help you understand what’s expected and how to prepare.
What Does a Home Study in Illinois Involve?
Home studies are thorough. A licensed investigator gathers information from several sources to build a complete picture of the household and the people in it.