Guardian Ad Litem Representation in Georgia

Family law matters sometimes arise when a child’s rights are on the line, and when this happens, the child generally isn’t expected to make all their own decisions or to represent themselves in court. These situations are somewhat different than they are for adults, and Georgia courts address the matter with guardian ad litem (GAL) representation. GALs fill a unique legal role, and if you have a family law case that concerns the best interest of your child, guardian ad litem representation in Georgia can help.

The Role of the Guardian Ad Litem

Typically, guardian ad litems are attorneys, but other qualified professionals can also fill the role. GALs are generally appointed by the court in cases that directly affect the welfare or custody of a child, and there are training requirements involved for non-attorney GAL appointees. GALs are assigned to represent the best interests of the child in question, and they serve as officers of the court. As such, their job is to assist the court and the involved parties in reaching decisions related to matters like the following:

• Visitation
• Child custody
• Additional child-related concerns

GALs hold positions of trust in relation to the minor children they represent, and they are called upon to employ due diligence in this role, which includes educating themselves about relevant cultural and economic diversity concerns and addressing them respectfully.

Qualifications

Because the role of guardian ad litem is based on protecting children, there is a range of qualifications that come into play, including:

• Knowledge regarding domestic relations law and procedures, which makes family law attorneys a good fit
• An understanding of the involved child’s best interests and of the best-practice methods of determining the child’s best interests
• A complete working knowledge of how child custody and visitation investigations are conducted
• A thorough understanding and commitment to the ethical obligations of the position, including as they relate to themself and the child, themself and counsel, and themself and the court
• An understanding of basic child development and the unique needs and abilities of children at different developmental stages
• The skill necessary to communicate clearly with the child they represent
• The ability to recognize family dynamics and dysfunction, including domestic violence, substance abuse, and child neglect or abuse
• Knowledge of the services available in relation to child welfare, including services related to medical care, mental health care, educational needs, and special needs
• Knowledge of the services available in relation to family preservation

Because the role they fill focuses on protecting the best interests of children, the list of GAL qualifications is a tall order.

Discuss Your Concerns with Experienced Guardian Ad Litem Representation in Georgia

If you have concerns regarding the best interests of your own child – or another child – in relation to a family law case, the compassionate Georgia family law attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland have a wide range of experience in the role of guardian ad litem – carefully protecting the best interests of the children we represent. We are here to help you and your child, so please don’t delay contacting or calling us at 770-887-1209 for more information today.