Family law cases can be complicated, and often parties involved may feel like no one is listening to the child/ren involved. But a court can give a voice to the child/ren involved by appointing an Albany guardian ad litem lawyer to advocate on behalf of the child/ren.
The experienced child custody attorneys at Colwell Law Group advocate for children every day. We understand the guardian ad litem process and can assist in providing a voice for your child/ren. Contact our knowledgeable team today for a complimentary consultation.
A guardian ad litem is an individual who is appointed by the court to investigate and represent the “best interests” of a child/ren in a legal proceeding. A guardian ad litem is appointed for a child/ren because they are unable to advocate for themselves in the court proceedings. A guardian ad litem is often a lawyer or other trained professional who has extensive experience representing children. A court may appoint a guardian ad litem in a variety of cases, including custody, abuse and neglect cases, or divorces, when the court wants to ensure the welfare of the child/ren is at the forefront of the matter.
An Albany guardian ad litem attorney can ensure that the best interests of the child/ren are heard by the court during family law proceedings.
In a family law matter, either party can request that the court appoint a guardian ad litem for the child/ren when they are unable to meaningfully participate in the proceedings. The court will review the request by holding a hearing and listening to the parties’ request for the appointment. If the court finds it appropriate, a guardian ad litem will then be appointed to assist with the case. The guardian ad litem is considered a temporary officer of the court that is assigned to assist with a family law matter throughout the pending case and reports their findings to the court directly.
A knowledgeable guardian ad litem lawyer in Albany can assist in answering questions about how a guardian ad litem can be requested.
A guardian ad litem plays an important role in family law proceedings. Once appointed by the court, a guardian ad litem will thoroughly investigate the case by conducting interviews with parents and visiting the parents’ homes. A guardian ad litem will also speak with the child/ren’s teachers, doctors, and counselors. A review of school and medical records will also be conducted. After the investigation is complete, the guardian ad litem will draft a written report for the court with recommendations. Once the court has made a decision, the guardian ad litem can also be appointed to monitor the plan of the court to ensure that counseling, treatment, or other requirements are being completed as directed.
A guardian ad litem attorney’s role is not just to convey to the Albany court what the child/ren want, but rather, after completing an investigation, what the guardian ad litem feels is in the best interest of child/ren to ensure their safety and welfare.
Family law proceedings can be emotional for everyone involved. An Albany guardian ad litem lawyer can give a voice to your child/ren when they may feel like they are not being heard or their best interests are not being addressed in court.
At Colwell Law Group, our lawyers advocate for child/ren in family law matters. We can answer your questions on the guardian ad litem process and how a guardian ad litem can impact your case. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.
Colwell Law
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(518) 462-4242
200 Great Oaks Blvd