When Your Child Is Interviewed by DHR, CPS, or the Judge: What You Must Understand
- Michael Capleone, Sr.
- Jul 9
- 5 min read
When a family court case intensifies—especially one involving abuse allegations or PFAs—the child may be interviewed by more than just the GAL. DHR, CPS, or even the judge may ask to speak with them directly.
What Is a Guardian ad Litem—and Why Are They Appointed in Custody Cases?
In high-conflict custody cases, emotions can run high and facts can become murky. That’s why the court sometimes appoints a Guardian ad Litem (GAL)—a neutral third party whose sole role is to represent the best interests of the child. A GAL is typically a licensed attorney or trained professional who is tasked with investigating the child’s circumstances, speaking with both parents, reviewing relevant documents, visiting the home, and, most importantly, speaking directly with the child. While they are not a therapist or judge, they are an independent voice for the child’s well-being in the courtroom. Contrary to popular fear, a GAL is not your enemy. They are not hired to attack you or side with the other parent. Instead, they are looking for signs of safety, stability, and sincerity. If you are a consistent, child-centered parent who is focused on your child’s emotional and physical well-being, a GAL can actually become one of your strongest protectors in court—especially when dealing with a manipulative or narcissistic co-parent.
The court appoints a GAL when there are serious concerns that the truth may be difficult to determine through testimony alone. Situations involving abuse allegations, parental alienation, false accusations, or high-conflict divorces often trigger GAL involvement. Ultimately, the GAL’s report and recommendations can carry significant weight with the judge. Your ability to present yourself truthfully, without defensiveness, and in a child-focused way can help ensure the GAL sees you clearly—and reports accordingly. In the fog of a custody case, the GAL often becomes the eyes and ears of the court. Handle the opportunity with respect, preparation, and calm. This is a high-stakes moment. And how you respond could determine the trajectory of your custody rights.
Why Your Child Might Be Interviewed
Abuse Allegations: Whether real or false, courts take these seriously.
Conflicting Testimony: When parents give drastically different stories, neutral sources seek clarity.
Concerns of Parental Alienation or Manipulation
How These Interviews Work
DHR/CPS Interviews are often held at school or a neutral setting
Judicial Interviews happen in chambers (rare, but possible)
GAL may be present or may submit input beforehand
What NOT to Do
Do not try to get your child to rehearse or memorize anything
Do not speak negatively about the process or people involved
Do not push your child to explain things to you afterward
What You CAN Do
Calm your child: "Just be honest. There are no wrong answers."
Assure them they’re safe and not in trouble
Document any manipulation or fear behaviors from the other parent
What Happens After
Your child’s interview may influence:
Custody recommendations
Credibility of the parents
Emergency decisions or safety plans
If the court senses coaching or pressure, it can work against the controlling parent. If your child is consistent and supported, the truth often reveals itself. Stay focused. Stay composed. Let the legal process unfold—and let your attorney guide you with precision. Do you want a powerful and Informative Guide and Checklist?
You're not alone—and you're not powerless. These simple, but informative and powerful guides that are strategic, legal, and provide sharp emotional tools that work. These guides are inexpensive, give you valuable knowledge, and peace of mind in addressing the issue you’re facing at a fraction of what it would cost to receive this same information from an in-person consultation with a professional.
👇Get this powerful Guide here!
👍 Need more step-by-step legal and emotional strategies? Download these focused guides:
—Written by Michael L. Capleone, Esq. | Alabama Family Law Attorney | All rights reserved.
Visit the website to explore resources: https://attorneymlc2003.wixsite.com/website.
About Michael Capleone, Attorney at Law
Michael Capleone is a seasoned family law attorney based in Hoover, Alabama, with over 22+ years of experience helping clients navigate complex legal challenges, including divorce, child custody, parental rights, grandparent’s rights, military divorces, petition for protection from abuse, CPS and DHR matters, father’s rights, mother’s rights, relationship advice, pets/ animal custody when a relationship or marriage ends, and general family law matters, co-parenting, dealing with a narcissist, emotional recovery, and much more! As a licensed practicing attorney since 2003, is a dedicated advocate for his clients, Michael understands the emotional and legal complexities of family law cases and works tirelessly to secure favorable outcomes in his law practice.
Whether you’re dealing with high-conflict custody battles, seeking modifications to child support or visitation, or facing difficult divorce proceedings, having problems with a toxic ex, trying to co-parent with a narcissist. Michael Capleone provides expert legal tips and topic specific information with wisdom and clarity. He is committed to ensuring that his clients’ rights are protected, and their voices are heard in the courtroom. These blogs and guides that he is creating are meant to provide simple, straightforward, helpful, and powerful practical information for people all across the United States of America and beyond.
These guides are written in a brief and concise way to get you powerful and useful information that you can easily print off in a reasonable small number of pages. Each guide is a concentrated, no-fluff resource — around 4-5 pages packed with professional insight, legal strategy, and emotional survival tactics. They are designed to cover the real pain points people face in courtrooms and custody fights: defending yourself against false accusations, exposing manipulation without looking petty, protecting your financial future, and keeping your relationship with your children strong in the middle of conflict.
For less than the cost of a single attorney consultation, you get targeted strategies built from over 22+ years of real-world family law experience. These aren’t generic blog articles or cookie-cutter templates. Every guide is designed to give you immediate, actionable steps — the same strategies I teach my own clients — adapted for real people dealing with real, high-stakes problems.
If you're serious about defending your rights, protecting your children, and staying one step ahead of a manipulative ex, these guides aren't just helpful — they're essential. They will save you time, reduce your stress, and help you make smarter moves when everything is on the line.
Winning in court isn’t just about having evidence. It’s about understanding the psychology, the patterns, and the legal strategies that judges actually respond to. These guides put that power in your hands. If you’re ready to stop reacting and start taking control, you’re exactly where you need to be!
For more information on Michael Capleone’s legal services or to schedule a consultation. An experienced Hoover, Alabama family law attorney that guides clients through legal strategy, emotional challenges, relationship problems, legal matters and more to achieve the best positive outcomes. Note: Licensed in the State of Alabama only.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique—please consult with a qualified family law attorney licensed in your jurisdiction to discuss your specific situation. Also, this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, psychological, or professional advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship or any other professional-client relationship. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, tax professional, psychologist, or other expert regarding your specific situation.
