Discretionary appointment of counsel
Washington
,
Legislation
, Custody Disputes - Children
In private custody proceedings connected to divorce/separation, the court has the power to appoint counsel for a minor in matters related to the development of the parenting plan, or generally for any matter related to custody, support, or visitation. Wash. Rev. Code § 26.09.110; Wash. Rev. Code § 26.10.070.
On April 13, 2023, Washington enacted HB 1088 which authorizes the arbitrator of a family law case to “[a]ppoint an attorney, guardian ad litem, or other representative for a child at the expense of the parties[,]” effective January 1, 2024. Wash. Rev. Code. § 26.61.13(k).
Appointment of Counsel: Discretionary
Qualified: No
