Family Court Investigator
Family Court Investigator
In Benton County the Family Court Investigator (FCI) program relies upon the services of the staff Family Court Investigator, Sandra Alarcon, to conduct investigations in cases where there are allegations of abuse and neglect. However, when conflicts arise, persons on the Title 26 Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Registry are appointed to perform Family Court Investigator services. GALs appointed from the Registry to perform Family Court Investigator functions are paid by the county at a rate of $65.00 per hour for a maximum of fifteen (15) hours. Additional time can be authorized by order of the court. Parties to the action are required to pay the county for the services of the FCI based on a sliding fee scale per Resolution No. 10-645.
In Franklin County the court appoints a Title 26 GAL to perform Family Court Investigator functions. GALs appointed from the Registry to perform Family Court Investigator functions are paid by the county at a rate of $65.00 per hour for a maximum of fifteen (15) hours of investigation. Additional time can be authorized by order of the court.
You can find forms for the appointment of Family Court Investigator/GAL and for the collection of information at the bottom of this page.
FEE SCHEDULE FOR COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL[...]
Microsoft Word document [14.3 KB]
Relevant Statutes
The statutory authority for the appointment of a guardian ad litem is RCW 26.12.175. Information obtained by a GAL cannot be released without a court order, under RCW 26.12.180.
FCI Forms
Microsoft Word document [35.3 KB]
Adobe Acrobat document [800.9 KB]
Microsoft Word document [34.3 KB]
This letter is mailed on all new appointments giving a brief description of the FCI's investigation.
FCI Information Sheet.pdf
Adobe Acrobat document [13.8 KB]
This form is required on all FCI's appointments by all parties. Please email, hand-deliver, or mail the form to the FCI immediately after the Order of Appointment is signed by the court.
FCI INTAKE FORM.pdf
Adobe Acrobat document [306.4 KB]
This form is required on all FCI's appointments by all parties. Please email, hand-deliver, or mail the form to the FCI immediately after the Order of Appointment is signed by the court.
FCI Release of Information.pdf
Adobe Acrobat document [12.6 KB]
A release of information form (with less permissions) is required for any adults living in the home with the parties.
FCI Release of Information for roommates[...]
Adobe Acrobat document [12.9 KB]
Ex Parte
Important Notice
The process for ex parte has changed in both counties on a permanent basis. Click HERE for a description of the process.
Further, the Court requires that litigants submitting orders ex parte must attest to whether or not a notice of disqualification has been filed. Click HERE to view Judicial Resolution 17-002 and related form.
Superior Court Administration Benton County Justice Center
7122 W Okanogan Pl
Building A
Kennewick, WA 99336
509-736-3071
Importance Notice
The Courts will be closed for Memorial Day on Monday, May 28, 2018.
Trials will not be held during the week of April 10, 2018 due to Judicial Spring Conference.
Please refer to Court Holiday Schedule to see changes to regular calendar.
DISCLAIMER
Due to the rapidly changing nature of the Court’s information on the internet pages, the Benton and Franklin Counties Superior Courts cannot insure 100% accuracy. The data and links are provided for informational purposes only and may not have been updated on the date you view it. The Courts assume no liability for any legal consequences arising out of any information on these pages.
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