Q&A

Does the judge listen to the GAL?

Does the judge listen to the GAL?

Do Judges Listen to the Guardian Ad Litem? The judge doesn’t always agree with the guardian ad litem, but they do recognize the importance of the GAL in proceedings. As experienced family law attorneys, we see these rules violated weekly.

Can a guardian ad litem enter a divorce?

A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is appointed in many divorce and child custody cases. A GAL will not enter a case until ordered by a judge.

Can a guardian ad litem testify in a mediation?

The Attorney ad litem does not file a report with the court nor can they testify even if serving in the dual role of the guardian/attorney ad litem; however, an attorney ad litem is a participant in the mediation and is bound the confidentiality rules.

What does a guardian ad litem ( GAL ) do?

A GAL will often be appointed in a case to look after the best interests of the child and report to the court, often through a written report, what the GAL believes to be in the best interest of the child.

How old do you have to be to get a guardian ad litem?

Additionally, some courts may not require a GAL if the minor children involved are older. While 6-year-olds are not able to properly speak for themselves on such a serious matter as divorce, 16-year-olds probably can.

A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is appointed in many divorce and child custody cases. A GAL will not enter a case until ordered by a judge.

What’s the role of a guardian ad litem in custody disputes?

The Role of a Guardian Ad Litem in Custody Disputes Courts assign a Guardian Ad Litem to evaluate and represent the best interests of a child in contested child custody cases. Courts assign a Guardian Ad Litem to evaluate and represent the best interests of a child in contested child custody cases. A service of Cordell & Cordell, P.C.

Additionally, some courts may not require a GAL if the minor children involved are older. While 6-year-olds are not able to properly speak for themselves on such a serious matter as divorce, 16-year-olds probably can.

How does a guardian ad litem work in Wisconsin?

By statutory directive in the state I practice in (Wisconsin), the court must promptly appoint a GAL if mediation fails. After a GAL is appointed, he or she will continue to act on behalf of the best interests of the child (ren) until discharged by the court. Cordell & Cordell understands the concerns men face during divorce.