In Middle Of Gal Investigation Options

[Sara3]

Hello all. Well, on my attorney's recommendation, I requested a guardian ad litem because of my husband's drinking problem and we are now in the middle of that process. I guess I am looking for reassurance from those of you who may have used a GAL. I have met with the GAL twice now, giving nearly my entire life story and highlighting some of the low points of our marriage, in rresponse to the GAL's questions. Many many questions. Just had a home visit with the children and he will have his next week, at the "marital" home which we still jointly own. Just heard that he missed his follow-up appointment with GAL. How much (if at all) will that affect things? Does an error like that have any import at all? It's such a scary process. Thank you.

[Ed]

Sara,

My apologies for missing this earlier.

I believe the Ky has the best record with GAL's on the forum. Let's see if he can provide advice on how to handle them.

Ed...

[kyfather]

Hi Sara,

Sorry for taking so long in replying but I usually only check the Child Custody portion of the forum. I will check this section as well from now on. Now onto your question.

My experience with a GAL is that they want as much information as you can provide so they can help to make the best recommendation. A GAL, as you already may know, is a lawyer whose job is to make a recommendation to courts on what is best for the child. Because the GAL is considered an officer of the court their recommendation is highly regarded and if they do their job correctly, will provide greater weight to the judge's decision than almost anything else you can do. I cannot stress enough of the importance in keeping the GAL informed on any major developments between the time that you conduct the interview and the trial (if it comes to that). I suggest that by keeping them informed, you provide that in writing and provide supporting documentation.

Having a good repoire with the GAL is important. In my case, the GAL has done over 1000 cases and he told the judge last time we were in court that this is the most acrimonious case he has ever had to deal with. He also noted how I kept him informed on what was goiing on especially with the development of my child and the "allegations" the BM made against me. Needlesstosay, his recommendation to the judge was in my child's best interest.