Guardians ad litem are sometimes appointed in contested custody cases. With all the news coverage of the Texas polygamists, guardians ad litem have been in the news alot of the past few weeks. Just what is a guardian ad litem?GALs are appointed by the court to represent the best interest of the child. GALs are required in child abuse cases in Florida. Each judicial circuit has a GAL program that trains volunteers to serve in the program.
In divorces, a GAL is appointed when one of the parties requests it by filing a motion and the court enters an order of appointment. GALs in divorce cases are usually attorneys in Florida.
Judges typically give the GAL recommendations great weight. You need to think about whether a GAL appointment would be helpful in your case. You should also speak with the proposed GALs prior to appointment because you and your child will be working with the GAL throughout the case.