Rule 202.18. Testimony of court-appointed expert witness in matrimonial action or proceeding

In any action or proceeding tried without a jury to which section 237 of the Domestic Relations Law applies, the court may appoint a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or other appropriate expert to give testimony with respect to custody or visitation, and may appoint an accountant, appraiser, actuary or other appropriate expert to give testimony with respect to equitable distribution or a distributive award. In the First and Second Judicial Departments, appointments shall be made as appropriate from a panel of mental health professionals pursuant to 22 NYCRR Parts 623 and 680. The cost of such expert witness shall be paid by a party or parties as the court shall direct.