Guardian ad litem

By law, a guardian ad litem may be appointed in cases with contested custody and parenting time issues to advise the court regarding custody and parenting time.

A guardian ad litem must be appointed if the court believes that the child is a victim of domestic abuse and/or child neglect.

The guardian is expected to perform an independent review of the case. They are expected to advocate for the child and monitor the child's best interest throughout the case, including participating in appropriate aspects of the case. Guardians are expected to prepare a written report for the court and to provide a factual basis for their opinion.

Guardians appointed under the law are either volunteers or paid by the county.

Guardians may also be appointed by the agreement of the parents. The payment of fees for such services is set forth in the agreement.

The Court can usually provide parents with a list of recognized guardians who work for that county.