What is a child custody evaluation?

A child custody evaluation is a process used in Washington to determine the custody and visitation arrangements that are in the best interests of a child. The evaluation is conducted by a mental health professional or evaluator, who is often a psychologist, and is typically court-ordered. The evaluator will interview parties involved in the custody dispute, such as the parents, extended family, and other individuals associated with the family. They may also speak to the child and observe interactions between the parents and the child. The purpose of the evaluation is to assess each parent’s ability to provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for the child and to make recommendations to the court on what custody and visitation arrangements would work best for the child. The evaluator may also review and discuss any relevant custody evaluations that were previously conducted. The evaluator will then write a report for the court with his or her findings. This report will be an important factor in the court’s decision as to what custody arrangement is ultimately chosen.

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What is a child custody evaluation?

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