What Is a Guardian Ad Litem?

Divorce may sound like a process for two married people, but when parents get divorced their children also have legal rights. Children’s rights are protected during divorce with help from mediation with a family therapist to a court-appointed guardian ad litem (GAL).

If you are a parent who is considering or currently undergoing divorce, an experienced Durham divorce lawyer can help protect the legal rights of both you and your children. To learn more, call 919-683-9500 to speak to an attorney.

When is a Guardian Ad Litem Is Needed?

It is important to note that the term “guardian ad litem” has different meanings in different circumstances. North Carolina has an agency called the Guardian Ad Litem Program where adults volunteer to speak up for children whose parents have been accused of abuse. While this is an important program, but not the topic of this article.

In a divorce, a GAL is a person who has been appointed to protect the children’s best interests while custody and child support arrangements are being made. He or she is usually an attorney, social worker, or licensed therapist. A court may decide to appoint a GAL in the following circumstances:

• The divorce is highly contentious, and the parents have not been able to make reasonable arrangements for their children’s long-term care.
• One or both parents are suspected of abusing or neglecting the children.
• One or both parents request a GAL to resolve a dispute.

The precise role of a GAL can be complex, and regulations vary from place to place. An experienced North Carolina child custody attorneys can provide further information about GALs and other divorce-related issues.

Contact a Durham Divorce Lawyer

The Durham divorce lawyers at the Law Office of John C. Fitzpatrick want to make people aware of the options and resources available to them. To discuss your situation, call 919-683-9500 today.