RCW 11.130.615 Professional evaluation. (Effective January 1, 2021.)

(1) At or before a hearing on a petition under this article for a protective arrangement, the court shall order a professional evaluation of the respondent:

(a) If the respondent requests the evaluation; or

(b) In other cases, unless the court finds that it has sufficient information to determine the respondent's needs and abilities without the evaluation.

(2) If the court orders an evaluation under subsection (1) of this section, the respondent must be examined by a licensed physician, psychologist, social worker, or other individual appointed by the court who is qualified to evaluate the respondent's alleged cognitive and functional abilities and limitations and will not be advantaged or disadvantaged by a decision to grant the petition or otherwise have a conflict of interest. The individual conducting the evaluation promptly shall file a report in a record with the court. Unless otherwise directed by the court, the report must contain:

(a) A description of the nature, type, and extent of the respondent's cognitive and functional abilities and limitations;

(b) An evaluation of the respondent's mental and physical condition and, if appropriate, educational potential, adaptive behavior, and social skills;

(c) A prognosis for improvement, including with regard to the ability to manage the respondent's property and financial affairs if a limitation in that ability is alleged, and recommendation for the appropriate treatment, support, or habilitation plan; and

(d) The date of the examination on which the report is based.

(3) The respondent may decline to participate in an evaluation ordered under subsection (1) of this section.

[ 2019 c 437 § 508.]