If parents are engaged in a custody dispute they may ask the Court to appoint a Guardian Ad Litem. The Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) looks at the situation from the children’s point of view and advocates the best interests of the children.
 
What children of any age need most is to NOT be at the center of conflict. The greatest gift divorcing parents can give to their children is to agree to a Parenting Plan.   

It is often hard for parents to see past their own difficulties in going through divorce and focus instead on the needs and interests of their children.  A GAL helps parents see through their children’s eyes and act as responsible parents.  

The parents may agree to hire a Guardian Ad Litem, or either parent may petition the Court to appoint one.  The GAL is paid by the parents, in accordance with their agreement or the court order.  

The GAL interviews the children, the parents, and others who know about the children–which may include teachers, relatives, friends, neighbors, doctors, counselors or coaches.  If the parties cannot agree on what’s best for the children, and ask a Judge to decide then the GAL’s report is shown to the Judge and the GAL may testify in Court. 

My focus as a GAL is on the best interests of the children.  That perspective, together with my experience and expertise, has often been instrumental in resolving conflicts—which is my goal and what your children deserve.