South KoreaWhat is the role of a family court investigator?
A family court investigator in South Korea assists judges by conducting impartial fact-finding—such as interviewing parties, visiting homes, and assessing child welfare—to support fair decisions in family cases like divorce, custody, and adoption.
What the Law Says
The role and duties of family court investigators are defined in the Family Litigation Act. They serve as neutral, court-appointed professionals who gather factual information to assist judicial decision-making in sensitive family matters.
Family court investigators are appointed by the family court to conduct investigations in cases involving marriage, divorce, parental authority, child custody, adoption, and other family-related disputes.
Their work includes interviewing parties and children, visiting homes or schools, reviewing records, and evaluating psychological or social conditions affecting family members.
Investigators must submit written reports to the court within 30 days of assignment unless extended for just cause. These reports are confidential and used solely to inform judicial decisions—not as evidence unless admitted by the court.
They act independently and impartially; they are not advocates for any party and have no authority to make rulings or enforce orders.
Statutory TextThe family court may appoint a family court investigator to investigate matters necessary for adjudication of a family case.
— Family Litigation Act, Art. 49 — Appointment of Family Court Investigator
Statutory TextA family court investigator shall submit a report on the results of the investigation to the family court within thirty days from the date of appointment, unless otherwise prescribed by the Rules of the Supreme Court.
— Family Litigation Act, Art. 49(3) — Submission Deadline
What to Do
If your case involves custody, visitation, or parental fitness, the court may assign an investigator without your request.
Cooperate fully with the investigator: respond honestly to interviews and provide requested documents or access (e.g., to your home or child’s school).
You may review the investigator’s report before the hearing—but cannot alter it. You may submit written objections or request clarifications.
Contact the court clerk to confirm whether an investigator has been assigned and to obtain procedural guidance.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.