In high conflict cases involving children, the Court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to assist in investigating disputes and allegations and ensure that a child’s best interests are protected. A GAL is a neutral representative that can be considered a fact-finder, an investigator, and evaluator. The main task of a GAL is to help ensure that a child’s physical safety, psychological health, and emotional well-being are properly protected.

A GAL conducts interviews of parents, children, and third parties. She will have home visits with each parent, as well as interviews or visits with relatives, therapists, doctors, and other important people in a child’s life. The GAL will review the court file, pleadings, and allegations made by each party.

In a GAL’s Report, prepared after full investigation, she will make recommendations to the Court as to what she believes is in the best interests of the child. While a court is under no obligation to follow the recommendations, judges do take these reports very seriously, as the GAL has access to sensitive information about the child and the case.

At The Women’s Law Group, some of our attorney’s take on GAL cases to assist in resolving difficult matters with high conflict cases involving children. Should you have a matter needing a GAL or have any questions regarding same, please contact us here at The Women’s Law Group.