The Role of a Parenting Evaluator in Washington Divorce Cases

In high-conflict custody cases, Washington courts may appoint a neutral third party, called a parenting evaluator, to help assess what arrangement best serves the child’s interests. A parenting evaluator is typically a licensed mental health professional or social worker trained to evaluate family dynamics and make custody-related recommendations.

When Are Parenting Evaluators Appointed?

Courts usually appoint a parenting evaluator when:

• Parents cannot agree on a parenting plan
  
  
• One or both parents raise concerns about abuse, neglect, or substance abuse
  
  
• There are questions about a child’s emotional or psychological well-being
  
  
• There is a request to limit a parent’s time or decision-making authority under RCW 26.09.191

The parties may agree to appoint a Parenting Evaluator if they cannot agree on a Parenting Plan. Otherwise, either parent can request an evaluation from the court, or the judge may order one on their own.

What Does the Evaluation Involve?

The parenting evaluator will conduct a thorough review of each parent's ability to care for the child. This often includes:

• Interviews with each parent and the child (if mature enough)
  
  
• Observations of parent-child interactions
  
  
• Reviewing relevant documents (court records, medical records, school reports)
  
  
• Contacting third parties (teachers, doctors, counselors, etc.)
  
  
• Possibly conducting psychological testing if concerns arise

The evaluator then compiles a written report with findings and recommendations for the court.

How Does the Court Use the Report?

While judges are not required to follow the evaluator’s recommendations, they often give the report significant weight. The evaluator’s insights can help the court craft a parenting plan that aligns with the child’s best interests, especially when other evidence is conflicting or lacking.

Tips for Working with a Parenting Evaluator

• Be Honest: Evaluators can often detect when someone is withholding information or exaggerating.
  
  
• Stay Child-Focused: The evaluator is looking for what benefits the child—not what hurts the other parent.
  
  
• Be Respectful: Showing anger, hostility, or contempt during the process can reflect poorly.
  
  
• Be Prepared: Keep documents organized and be ready to explain your parenting style, involvement, and concerns.

Protect Your Rights With Legal Guidance

The parenting evaluation process can be emotional and complex. Having an experienced family law attorney can help you prepare, present your case effectively, and respond to any concerning findings in the report.

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we offer free telephone 425-800-0573 case evaluations to discuss your options and rights in a Washington parenting case. Let us help you protect your relationship with your child and secure a fair outcome.

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Social media is a regular part of life. From posting vacation photos to sharing daily thoughts, many people don’t think twice before publishing content online. But if you’re going through a divorce, social media can quickly shift from harmless fun to a damaging liability.

What You Post Can Be Used Against You

Everything you post, photos, comments, likes, check-ins, can potentially be used as evidence against you in court. That includes:

• Posts showing lavish spending during a financial dispute.
  
  
• Messages or comments contradicting your legal claims.
  
  
• Photos of partying or substance use when parenting ability is in question.
  
  
• Posts that insult or disparage your ex-spouse, especially during custody proceedings.

Even if your profile is set to private, there are ways for attorneys and spurned spouses to access social media content, so be careful.

How Social Media Can Affect Custody and Support

Washington courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child. A single post, like a photo from a late-night bar outing or a rant about your co-parent, can call your judgment into question. In support cases, posts that suggest hidden income or financial stability may undercut requests for support or justify reductions.

Smart Social Media Habits During Divorce

If you are in a divorce, the best thing you can do is lock down your social media and just stop posting anything until the separation is complete. Otherwise, here are a few tips:

• Avoid posting about the case or your ex.
  
  
• Don't share financial information or large purchases.
  
  
• Be cautious with dating app activity and photos.
  
  
• Think twice before commenting on mutual friends' posts.
  
  
• Don’t post anything that you think your spouse, or the court, would find negative

What About Your Ex's Social Media?

If your former spouse is posting inappropriately, your attorney may be able to use that content as evidence. However, it’s important to avoid logging into their accounts or accessing private information illegally. Instead, take screenshots of public content and share them with your lawyer.

Working with Legal Professionals Who Understand the Modern Landscape

During a divorce, everything matters. The smallest post can create a big problem. Social media can either support or sabotage your goals, so treat it as part of your legal strategy.

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we understand how digital footprints affect legal outcomes. We’ll help you navigate your divorce while protecting your interests. Contact us for a free telephone case evaluation 425-800-0573!

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Divorcing individuals often experience grief, anger, anxiety, and confusion. Engaging in therapy or counseling can be a vital tool for processing those emotions in a healthy and constructive way. Therapy is not only for those in deep crisis, but it can also help clients gain clarity, set goals, and make better decisions during the legal process.

When Is Therapy Helpful?

• Managing Emotional Stress: Working through the personal grief of divorce, especially when children are involved.
  
  
• Improving Co-Parenting Communication: Therapists can help divorcing parents establish boundaries and develop better communication skills.
  
  
• Preparing for Major Life Changes: Counseling can help clients adjust to new living situations, parenting schedules, or financial changes.
  
  
• Navigating Conflict: High conflict divorces often benefit from therapeutic support, especially when interactions with an ex-spouse are volatile.

Can Therapy Affect the Legal Case?

Judges generally support therapy for parents and children, especially when it promotes emotional health and stability. However, there are a few legal considerations:

• Privacy: While typically therapy records are protected, in a divorce case, your spouse may be able to subpoena medical records if they believe your mental health affects your ability to parent.
  
  
• Children in Therapy: Courts may approve therapy for children going through divorce. If a Parenting Plan is in place, please speak with your attorney before unilaterally placing a child in therapy.

Therapy Isn’t a Sign of Weakness - It’s a Strategy

Seeking help doesn’t undermine your case; it often strengthens it. Judges appreciate parties who are working to better themselves and reduce conflict, especially in custody matters. Therapy can help you remain calm and focused during a time when emotions often run high.

Finding the Right Support

Look for a licensed professional with experience in divorce or family dynamics. Some therapists specialize in working with children affected by divorce. If co-parenting is a struggle, co-parenting therapy or reunification therapy may be recommended.

Legal Guidance with Compassion

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we recognize that divorce is more than a legal issue, it's a life change. Our Washington family law attorneys work with clients holistically, supporting both legal goals and personal well-being. If you're considering divorce or struggling through the process, call us for a free telephone consultation. We’re here to help you navigate the path forward with strength and clarity. Call today 425-800-0573 for a free telephone case evaluation.

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