Guardian Ad Litem

You have probably heard the term guardian ad litem a time or two but may be unclear regarding what exactly it means. The term guardian ad litem literally means a guardian for the legal action in question, but guardians ad litem are typically ordered for those cases in which there is a significant amount of conflict regarding child custody issues or in which the welfare of the children may be in question. If the judge deems that a guardian ad litem is in the best interests of the children involved, he or she will appoint one. Alternatively, either party (either parent) in the case can request that a guardian ad litem be appointed. If you are facing child custody concerns, don’t wait to reach out to an experienced Florida Guardian Ad Litem

The role of the guardian ad litem is to investigate the relevant facts in the child custody case and to report the information back to the court. The kinds of cases in which guardians ad litem are typically required include:

• Cases in which there is significant conflict between the parties regarding their shared children
• Cases in which there is significant concern regarding the children’s well-being

A guardian ad litem is appointed to act in the best interests of the involved children and to report all attendant recommendations back to the court. In his or her efforts, the guardian ad litem will investigate the facts involved in the case by speaking with each parent, the children, and any relevant witnesses. The guardian ad litem can also engage in all the following in his or her efforts to protect the children’s best interests:

• Obtain access to medical and other records
• Request that the court order evaluations and/or examinations of the parents and/or children
• Assist in the process of obtaining experts for these evaluations and/or examinations
• Access to all educational process

The State of Florida looks to guardians ad litem to protect children from the trauma that is common to highly charged divorce and child custody cases – for the betterment of society. While guardians ad litem are not mediators in these child-related cases, they can use their reports and recommendations to the court to help move cases toward beneficial resolutions. Generally, family court judges apply considerable weight to these reports and recommendations.

If you are facing a legal concern that relates to your children, it’s a serious matter, and the experienced and dedicated Florida family law attorneys at Costa & Associates have the compassion and concern to help. Involving a guardian ad litem in your case can help ensure that the judge involved understands the complicated intricacies of your unique case and that your children’s best interests are well protected throughout the legal process and beyond. To learn more, please don’t wait to contact or call us at 305-827-0100 to schedule a free consultation today.