What is a custody evaluation?

A custody evaluation is a process used in Washington state to help decide child custody disputes. This process requires an independent mental health professional trained in child custody law to perform an impartial analysis of the family dynamic and history. The purpose of the evaluation is to collect information from both parties regarding their relationship with the child, parent-child interaction, family dynamics, and any other relevant factors to determine what custody arrangement is in the best interest of the child. The evaluation typically includes interviews of both parties and any relevant third parties, home visits, and psychological testing. The evaluator will then compile all of the gathered data and make a recommendation for a custody arrangement to the court. The court will then make the final decision based on what it believes is in the best interests of the child. It’s important to note that the court is not bound by the evaluation, but it typically takes the evaluation into consideration when rendering its decision.

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What is a custody evaluation?

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