What Should I Do if a Guardian ad Litem Has Been Assigned to My Case? 

 Posted on November 18, 2021 in Divorce

Parents getting divorced in Illinois frequently struggle to resolve issues related to the children. Determining child support, dividing parenting time, and allocating parental responsibilities can be very difficult for parents who are locked in conflict and unable to cooperate. Although most parents can prioritize their children’s best interests even during divorce, some cases require court intervention. In cases like this, a court may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL) to determine a child’s best interests. If you have had a guardian ad litem assigned to your case and want to know more about what to expect, read on.

What is a Guardian ad Litem’s Role?

Guardians ad litem are responsible for investigating all aspects of a case wherein there are questions about which parent should have parenting time or parental responsibilities. To do this, GALs will interview the child and both parents and may also speak with the child’s teachers, neighbors, and religious leaders - anyone who can provide appropriate and helpful information. GALs often investigate a child’s past academic performance and medical history. They will also check both parents’ criminal histories and follow up on any allegations of abuse.

Once their investigation is complete, GALs write a report and submit it to the court. The report contains the findings of the GALs investigation and often contains recommendations for resolving issues in the child’s best interests. GALs try to provide the child with an arrangement that allows for a meaningful relationship with both parents, but only if it is safe or healthy to do so.

What Should Parents Do if a Guardian ad Litem Has Been Assigned?

Parents may feel stressed and scared knowing that they are going to be investigated in depth. However, the best thing to do is to remain calm and helpful with a GAL who has been assigned to your case. Parents who are honest and civil and who present a truthful picture of their home arrangements have nothing to fear. The worst thing parents could do is try to falsify information or intimidate or pressure the GAL into making a particular finding.

Meet with a DuPage County Child Issues Lawyer

Cases involving contentious child-related issues are more easily handled with the help of a competent and compassionate Naperville, IL divorce attorney. At Calabrese Associates, P.C., we are committed to helping you resolve your case while ensuring the best interests of your child are protected. We have experience working with cases involving guardians ad litem and will make the process clear and straightforward. Call our offices to schedule a consultation today at 630-393-3111.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050K506.htm