What Happens When Child Custody Is Contested in Georgia
If you and your spouse cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of your children. The recommendation of the guardian will carry a significant amount of weight in court.
Both Sam and Josie Siemon at our firm are guardians ad litem. We view our role as an honor because it shows that the court has a great deal of confidence in our ability to protect the best interests of children. Having served as guardians ad litem in contested child custody cases, we know how you should communicate with the guardian ad litem and what evidence you will need to present to support your case. With offices in Alpharetta, Cumming and Atlanta, we represent fathers and mothers throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.
What Is a Guardian Ad Litem?
In Georgia, a guardian ad litem is a lawyer who represents the interests of children in matters that concern the court. In addition to child custody cases, guardians ad litem are used to investigate and advise the court in cases of child abuse and neglect.
The guardian will conduct a thorough investigation of the issues in the case, interviewing both parents, the children, teachers, family friends and others to determine the best interests of the children. The guardian ad litem will make a recommendation to the court on issues such as who should have legal custody, who should be the primary guardian and how much visitation the other parent should have.
With few exceptions, the court will follow the recommendations of the guardian ad litem.
What Should I Say to the Guardian Ad Litem?
The guardian ad litem will be less interested in what is best for the parent than what is best for the children. In everything you say and do, you should understand that your children's best interests come first.
One thing you should not do is disparage the other parent. The court's goal is for your child to have a healthy and positive relationship with both parents. If you belittle the other party in front of the guardian ad litem, that behavior will work against your case.
Contact Our Atlanta Divorce Attorneys Today
If you will be talking to a guardian ad litem in Georgia, our lawyers are here to advise you. Please contact us today and arrange a personal, discreet and helpful consultation.
