In family cases, a guardian ad litem (GAL) is appointed when parents cannot agree on a parenting plan for their children. Typically, the judge or marital master issues an order appointing a particular GAL to investigate specific issues that are in dispute. The court order will designate how much each party is required to pay the GAL.
The GAL conducts an investigation which may include interviewing the parents, the children and other persons who may have information relevant to the issues involved. In most cases the GAL prepares a written report which includes a recommended resolution of custody and visitation issues that, in the GAL's estimation, is in the best interest of the children.
The judge or marital master makes the final determination after considering the GAL's recommendation along with all of the other evidence presented in the case.
My appointment as the Guardian ad Litem in this case means that children are involved and the stakes are as high as they get. Please know that I’m invested in children’s best interests and my job is to hear children's voices. What they want is not the primary goal though I will hear them, it’s what they need and how to best meet those needs. There is no magic wand to get the outcome a parent may desire, and this is not an easy process. Know that I’m dedicated to the investigation the court is asking me to do and that I will be as thorough as possible.
A lot of parents want to know what to tell their kids about my role and how to introduce a GAL coming into a home visit. What I ask is that you let your child know that someone will be coming in to meet and spend time with them, and that there are no expectations. Simply put, consider me an informal visitor that wants to get to know your child. During the visit, I will address more specifically if needed directly with kids. Don’t overly prepare them, I do not come in with a notebook or questionnaire, nor do I have targeted questions that I will ask during visits. It’s a natural process and I like for any information they have to share to be done more organically; it will not be an interrogation!
Christina Law-Hill, licensed Guardian ad Litem with the State of New Hampshire
License No: 00095
Profession: Guardian ad Litem
License Type: Guardian ad Litem
License Status: Active
Expiration Date: 1/28/2027