HawaiiHawaii law allows counselors to evaluate child custody cases
Hawaii law allows actively licensed mental health counselors to evaluate child custody cases when appointed, subject to other legal requirements.
What it does
Active mental health counselors may be appointed to evaluate child custody cases, subject to the law’s other requirements.
Argument forCourts could have more licensed professionals to choose from, which may help families get custody evaluations sooner.
Argument againstFamilies might still face long waits or high evaluation costs because the law does not require courts to appoint counselors or set prices.
More detail
A person with an active license as a mental health counselor may be appointed as a child custody evaluator. The provision covers people actively licensed as mental health counselors under chapter 453D. Appointments remain subject to subsection (c). The law took effect upon approval on July 10, 2026.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Adopted
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jul 10Received.Introduced
HealthcareMental Health