Poorman Investigations in Carmel, IN and Indianapolis, IN is dedicated to the safety of children and the children of our clients. Therefore, we sent two of our investigators through the Kids Voice of Indiana Guardian ad Litem program.
If your case is ordered by the court to bring in a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) for your probate, paternity, divorce or child custody action, let us help by calling 317-774-1626
What is a Guardian ad Litem?
A “Guardian ad litem” (GAL) is a person the court appoints to investigate what solutions would be in the “best interests of a child.” Here, we are talking about a GAL in a divorce or parental rights and responsibilities case. The GAL will look into the family situation and advise the court about issues such as:
* where the children should live most of the time
* whether the child is being harmed by one parent’s alleged substance abuse
* what contact the child should have with the other.
What does “guardian ad litem” mean?
A guardian is a person who acts to protect or help someone. “Ad litem” means “for the lawsuit”. There are different kinds of guardians ad litem for different kinds of cases. In some cases, the judge names a “guardian ad litem” to work with a child or a person who has a disability that makes it hard for them to understand a case that involves them. In other cases, like in custody cases or neglect or abuse cases, a guardian ad litem may be appointed to investigate and stand for the child’s best interests.
What does a guardian ad litem do?
Guardians ad litem tell the court what is best for the child in things like custody and visitation. They do an independent investigation. They do not work for court services or child protection.
They talk to the child, the parents and other care-givers. They can talk in private to counselors, teachers, family members and friends, and court services and child protection workers.
They write a report to the court saying what they think the judge should order. The judge does not have to do what the guardian says, but will take the report very seriously.
It is important for you to cooperate with the guardian ad litem. Their report can help or hurt your case. Remember: thinking about what is best for your child should be your top priority.
Is the guardian ad litem the child’s lawyer?
No. The guardian ad litem makes their own decision about what is best for the child. It might not be just what the child wants.
