What Is a Family Law Guardian ad Litem?
A family law Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a neutral professional appointed by the court to investigate a custody or time-sharing dispute and tell the judge what arrangement best protects the child. Our Guardian ad Litem provides court-appointed GAL services to families in all 67 Florida counties.
What a family law Guardian ad Litem does
In a Florida divorce, paternity or modification case, a GAL works for the court and focuses only on the child. The GAL does not represent either parent and is not the child's attorney.
- Meets with the child in an age-appropriate, non-leading way
- Interviews both parents and other important adults in the child's life
- Visits each home in person
- Speaks with teachers, doctors, therapists and daycare providers when the court allows
- Reviews school, medical, counseling and law enforcement records
- Delivers a written report and, when needed, court testimony with recommendations
When does a Florida court appoint a GAL?
A judge may appoint a Guardian ad Litem when the facts are disputed and the court needs an independent, child-focused investigation. Either parent, an attorney, or the judge can ask for an appointment.
- High-conflict divorce or separation
- Concerns about drug or alcohol use
- Allegations of abuse or neglect
- Custody and relocation disputes
- Disagreements over school choice or special education
- Limited scope questions, such as home safety or decision-making authority
Private family law GAL vs. the state GAL program
Florida's Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office mainly represents children in dependency cases, where the state is involved because of abuse or neglect. In private family law cases such as divorce and custody, judges often appoint a private GAL like Our Guardian ad Litem, and the parents share the cost as set out in the court order.
Our Guardian ad Litem accepts court-appointed cases only. That keeps the scope, authority and payment terms of the investigation clearly defined by the judge.
How much does a family law GAL cost?
Cost depends on the scope of the case, the number of homes and people involved, and whether a full investigation or a limited scope review is ordered. Our Guardian ad Litem offers income-based pricing options so more Florida families can access a qualified GAL. You can see current rates on our pricing page.
How our process works anywhere in Florida
We serve every Florida county from our offices in Alachua and Tarpon Springs. We travel anywhere in the state for in-person home visits, and once home visits are complete, follow-up interviews and updates take place by secure video chat.
Our team has worked in courthouses in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, Manatee, Lake City and Fort Lauderdale, as well as out of state.
Common questions
Is a Guardian ad Litem the same as a lawyer for my child?
No. In Florida family law cases, a GAL is a neutral fact-finder who makes recommendations about the child's best interests. The GAL does not represent either parent or act as the child's attorney.
Can I hire a Guardian ad Litem without a court order?
Our Guardian ad Litem only accepts court-appointed cases. You or your attorney can file a motion asking the court to appoint Our Guardian ad Litem by name.
Do you serve families outside Tampa Bay and Gainesville?
Yes. Our Guardian ad Litem serves all 67 Florida counties. We travel for in-person home visits and use secure video for follow-up meetings.