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The Florida Guardian ad Litem Program is committed to five core values: Commitment to Children; Communication Built on Trust; Collaboration; Collective Empowerment and Courtesy, otherwise known as the 5 C's.

A Guardian ad Litem, commonly referred to as a GAL, is a person appointed by the Court to investigate the facts of any proceeding pending in the court relating to or involving questions as to the care, custody or maintenance of minor children and as to any matter involving domestic relations.

You can ask the judge to appoint a GAL or a Probation Officer to help decide which parent should have custody. File a motion that asks the judge to appoint a GAL or order the Probation Department to investigate. If the other parent asks for custody, you can respond by asking the judge to appoint a GAL.

First Impressions at the GAL Office. As the saying goes, You never get a second chance to make a first impression. This is definitely the case with a GAL. First Impressions at the Home Visit. Don't Put the Child in the Middle. Be Honest. Stay In Touch.

The typical GAL in Snohomish County, Washington (where the author of this article practices) charges $75 $250 per hour and requires an advance fee deposit (retainer) of $1,500 $3,500. The court normally apportions these fees between the parties 50/50 or based on the parties' proportionate incomes.

Often, though not always, the judge does agree with the guardian ad litem. Generally speaking, guardians ad litem are really well respected, and they're an important part of a custody case.Guardians ad litem are attorneys, too, but they're trained to deal with kids.

Guardian ad Litem (GAL) To become a GAL, an individual must complete an approved training program, provide background information to the court(s) in which the GAL wishes to serve, and meet all eligibility requirements set by local court rule or policy.

Pay them. It is very important to make sure GAL fees are paid. Be accessible and helpful. Don't badger or pester them. Be honest. Let them do their jobs. Remember they are the voice for your kids. Don't attack the other side.

A guardian ad litem is a ward's legal advocate in a single court action.On the other hand, a guardian has overall legal authority to make personal and financial decisions for a child or incapacitated party, although the title may not be permanent.