Using a Guardian Ad Litem in Your Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Case

Child time-sharing is one of the most contested matters in the Broward County Family Court. If you are negotiating a parenting plan and have concerns about the other parent’s ability to protect and nurture your child, you may want to consider a Guardian ad Litem.

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) exists specifically to help the court understand what truly serves your child’s best interests when parents cannot agree. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer explains what a GAL does and when to request one.

What a Broward County Guardian ad Litem Does

In Broward County child time-sharing cases, a Guardian ad Litem, or GAL as they’re often called, may be appointed by the court to advocate for your child’s best interests. Under Section 61.403 of the Florida Statutes, they conduct independent investigations and report findings directly to the judge.

A GAL is a neutral third party. As such, their perspective can help when negotiating time-sharing, particularly in contentious cases. A GAL investigation typically includes:

• A review of your child’s school records, medical history, and the existing court file.
• Individual interviews with each parent.
• Age-appropriate conversations with your child.
• Home visits to observe each parent’s living environment firsthand
• Conversations with your child’s teachers, doctors, therapists, or others.

Once a GAL completes their investigation, they issue a written report to the court. This report includes specific and well-supported recommendations.

While judges are not required to follow them, GAL reports carry significant weight in Broward County child time-sharing proceedings, as they offer an objective viewpoint grounded in direct observation rather than competing claims from parents in conflict.

When to Request a Guardian ad Litem in Fort Lauderdale

Not every Broward County child time-sharing case requires a GAL. In fact, many are successfully resolved without one. A GAL only becomes necessary when the circumstances are difficult to evaluate through the parent’s testimony alone, and when an independent, child-focused perspective could meaningfully support your position.

You may want to discuss requesting a GAL with your lawyer if your case involves:

• Alleged abuse, neglect, or domestic violence;
• Sharply conflicting accounts between parents;
• Worries that one parent may be undermining the child’s relationship with the other;
• Questions about a parent’s substance use or mental health;
• A proposed relocation could significantly affect your child’s daily life and relationships;
• The child has a strong preference to live with a particular parent.

Either parent has the right to request a GAL. An experienced Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer can help you determine whether one is needed to protect your child and strengthen your case.

To Request a Consultation, Reach Out to Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Lawyer Today

Broward County child time-sharing cases can be contentious. As a neutral third party, a Guardian ad Litem helps ensure your child’s best interests are protected. To find out whether one could help in your situation, request a consultation with Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices. Give our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer a call or contact us online today.

Source:

flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2023/61.401