What is a Guardian ad Litem?

A guardian ad litem, or GAL as they are commonly called, are attorneys for the children.

Whenever abuse or neglect of a child is alleged in a divorce case, a Judge has no choice but to appoint a GAL. The cost of the GAL is most often paid for equally by each party. The GAL is there to make sure the best interests of the children are represented in the divorce. They are also appointed in very highly contested divorce cases. The GAL has the authority to make recommendations to the Court about the custody and care of the children, but their opinion is not binding on the Court.