If you’re a parent involved in a custody dispute, few phrases cause more anxiety than “ guardian ad litem home inspection and interview. ” It feels personal, invasive, and uncertain. Suddenly, someone you’ve never met is coming into your home—evaluating your space, your parenting style, even your tone of voice—and then writing a report that could influence the outcome of your entire case. That reaction is completely understandable. But understanding why  the guardian ad litem

Understanding the Guardian ad Litem’s Role in Family Court Cases When parents find themselves in the middle of a custody or divorce case, emotions can run high and facts can become blurred. In many Alabama family court cases, those involving children, a neutral professional called a guardian ad litem  (often abbreviated GAL ) is appointed to help the judge uncover what truly serves the child’s best interests. Most parents have heard the term, but few really understand what a

When a guardian ad litem (GAL) is appointed in your custody or divorce case, it often means the court wants an independent, child-focused professional to evaluate the situation. What you say—and how you say it—can have a lasting impact on the outcome. The GAL is not your enemy, but they aren’t your advocate either. Their duty is to the best interests of your child, not to either parent. Clients frequently ask me, “What should I not say to the guardian ad litem?” After twenty-

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When a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is appointed to your case, their home visit can carry immense weight in determining custody and visitation...

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