About Dr. Lynette Dufton
Dr. Lynette Dufton is a licensed psychologist in Washington State who provides forensic psychological evaluation and consultation services in contested parenting and custody disputes. Her work is focused on translating complex psychological and relational dynamics into structured, defensible analysis that assists attorneys and courts in decision-making.
Professional Background
Dr. Dufton holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Vanderbilt University. She trained at the University of Washington for her post-doctoral fellowship. Her professional experience includes extensive work with children, adolescents, and families navigating high-conflict relational dynamics and complex parent–child concerns.
Her clinical background includes psychological assessment, diagnostic clarification, and consultation across developmental stages. This foundation informs her forensic work in cases involving disputed parenting capacity, child functioning, attachment considerations, and relational disruption.
Forensic Approach
Forensic psychological evaluation differs fundamentally from clinical treatment in purpose, scope, and role expectations.
In a forensic context, the role is not therapeutic. It is evaluative.
Dr. Dufton’s forensic work emphasizes:
Clear differentiation between clinical and forensic roles
Integration of multiple data sources, including records, psychological testing, and collateral information
Explicit linkage between psychological data and conclusions
Transparency in reasoning
Structured written analysis suitable for legal proceedings
Her reports are organized, clearly written, and designed to assist attorneys in understanding the evidentiary strengths and limitations of psychological findings.
Professional Standards & Framework
Dr. Dufton’s work is informed by accepted professional standards in forensic psychology. Her approach emphasizes neutrality, disciplined reasoning, and clearly defined scope of engagement.
Forensic opinions are grounded in multi-source data and articulated in a manner intended to withstand professional and legal scrutiny.
Licensure
Licensed Psychologist — Washington State
License # PY 60144022