Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing: When To Request A Guardian Ad Litem
A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is appointed through the Florida family courts to represent the best interests of children. In Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing proceedings, where conflict is common and there may be concerns about the child’s well-being, a GAL acts as an advocate.
They investigate the circumstances and provide recommendations to the court on time-sharing and parenting plans to protect the child’s best interests. Learn more about when to request a Guardian Ad Litem and how they can help your Broward County child time-sharing case.
When Should You Request a Guardian Ad Litem?
The Florida Guardian Ad Litem program represents a collaboration between the courts, social workers, and legal professionals. Trained volunteers with experience in child welfare get appointed by the court to advocate for children whose safety or well-being is at risk.
Legal proceedings involving children in the Broward County Family Court can get contentious. Situations in which requesting a Guardian Ad Litem can help include:
- When there are allegations of child abuse or neglect;
- When there are concerns about parental fitness and problems, such as addiction or criminal behavior;
- In high-conflict child time-sharing cases, when the parents are involved in prolonged disputes;
- When there are allegations of parental alienation, which is when one parent attempts to manipulate the child and turn them against the other parent.
A GAL acts as an impartial third party in the above cases, whose only interest is ensuring the child is safe and in an environment where they will thrive.
How Having A Guardian Ad Litem Can Help In Fort Lauderdale Time-Sharing Proceedings
Why would you consider a guardian ad litem when attempting to negotiate time-sharing and parenting plans in Fort Lauderdale? Like you, their primary concern is protecting your child’s safety and they act as a strong legal advocate on their behalf.
Once appointed through the Broward County Family Court, a Guardian Ad Litem conducts a thorough investigation, which includes:
- Interviewing both the child and their parents to understand each party’s perspective and concerns;
- Speaking with relevant parties, including teachers, family members, and therapists;
- Reviewing documents and evidence, such as school records, medical reports, and previous court filings;
- Observing parent-child interactions and evaluating the relationship dynamics and quality of care;
- Provide a written report outlining their findings and make recommendations for Broward County parenting plans.
A GAL’s input can be instrumental in helping judges make informed decisions, particularly in complex or highly contentious Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing cases.
Request A Consultation Today With Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Lawyer
Child time-sharing proceedings in Fort Lauderdale have the potential to be high-conflict. Any court orders issued can impact your rights as a parent and your child’s safety and well-being for years into the future.
Vanessa L. Prieto is an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer and provides the caring support and trusted legal representation you need when facing this type of challenging situation. To discuss more about whether you need a court-appointed GAL and other legal options available, call or contact us online today to request a consultation.
Source:
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
