Marissa H. Washington

As an Attorney for the Children (AFC), I am appointed to represent the children throughout the various proceedings they are involved in during their childhoods. Just as parties to a case (typically parents) have their own attorneys, so do children. My job is NOT to represent the wants/wishes of the parents, rather, it is to express the wants/wishes of the children. It is not uncommon for those desires to conflict leaving one parent dissatisfied as appears to have been the case in this matter. When representing children, I meet with them AND speak with collaterals such as teachers, medical providers, and the like to obtain supplemental information to support my clients' positions and gain more insight into the facts at hand. It is not uncommon for me to go to children's schools unbeknownst to parents as well to avoid any undue influence being placed on the children prior to our meetings. I will also meet with parents if they desire, and/or if the attorneys for the parents allow. Only in very limited circumstances am I able to substitute judgment and undermine my clients' positions. Certainly, the position of an AFC is not determinative of the outcome of a proceeding. It is only the parents who can reach an agreement or a Judge who can render a final decision. I can assure you that I treat ALL clients equally, regardless of payment source. I note that, in reviewing my files, I have no parent who fits the name and information provided in the description of the above review.