When the department appears or participates in an adjudicative proceeding under chapter 26.23 or 74.20A RCW it shall:

(1) Act in furtherance of the state's financial interest in the matter;

(2) Act in the best interests of the children of the state;

(3) Facilitate the resolution of the controversy; and

(4) Make independent recommendations to ensure the integrity and proper application of the law and process.

In the proceedings the department does not act on behalf or as an agent or representative of an individual.