When mediation is unsuccessful or the Court otherwise orders it, Family Court Services evaluates the needs of children and the ability of each parent to meet the children's needs. In an evaluation:

• Both parents are interviewed to gain an understanding of their parenting views, concerns, and skills.
• Additional information may be gathered by observing the parent with the children, talking with the children, home visits, or consulting with other professionals who may have information on the child's needs and the skills of each parent.
• The parents may be referred to community resources that can help them solve problems or gain new skills that can help them with parenting.
• The findings and recommendations of the evaluation are reported to parents, their attorneys and the Court.

• Evaluation Questionnaire

The FCS Evaluation Fees are assessed on a sliding fee scale similar to the calculations on the Child Support Worksheet. Each party pays their own fee based on their individual income--not exceed $2000.00. The fee payments are divided over a 12-month period (but cannot be less than $25.00 per month.) The fee invoice will be sent to each client from the King County Finance office approximately two weeks after the Parenting Plan Evaluation report has been submitted to the court and parties. 

For those clients who are unable to afford the full fee amount, we have a Fee Reduction Request form. You must complete the entire form and submit it no later than 2 weeks after receiving your invoice.

• Fee Adjustment Request