What Does a Guardian Ad Litem Do?

 Posted on March 31, 2025 in Child Custody

In child custody disputes, family law courts are faced with the difficult task of determining a child’s best interests. To accomplish this, a judge may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL), a legal advocate who has the power to investigate a family on behalf of the court. After a thorough investigation, the GAL can make a recommendation to the judge.

A parent can also request a guardian ad litem in a divorce case, but it is up to a judge to decide if a GAL’s services are necessary. Attorney Don Pesce is a court-approved GAL with years of experience in family law. When you work with Pesce Law Group, P.C., our attorneys will stand up for your child’s best interests.

Interviews

In order to become better acquainted with a family’s situation, the guardian ad litem may conduct several interviews. The purpose of these interviews is to learn more about the child’s home life, particularly his or her relationship with the parents. The GAL may conduct interviews with the child, his or her parents, and people close to the child like relatives or teachers.

If you are asked questions by a guardian ad litem, it is important that you answer honestly. Lying about any particular detail could damage your credibility and hurt your case. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we will conduct interviews to get an in-depth perspective of your child’s living situation.

Home Visits

In addition to the interviews, a guardian ad litem may also visit each parent’s residence during the investigation. Most of the time, parents are given notice before a visit, but a GAL could arrive unannounced if there is an imminent concern about the child’s safety. 

When a guardian ad litem conducts a home visit, he or she may make notes about the state of the residence, such as whether the child has enough to eat or if there are any clear safety hazards. If you are expecting a visit from a guardian ad litem, you should make sure your residence is prepared for inspection.

Gathering Relevant Evidence

A guardian ad litem may request certain information for the court to reference. For example, the GAL may request your child’s health records to understand his or her needs. The child’s report card or attendance records in school may also be of interest to the court. If the child is struggling in school, it could be indicative of a troubled home life.

At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we will take the time to compile all of the relevant documents before making a recommendation to the court. We want to make sure that the judge’s decision is informed by hard evidence in addition to observations and testimony.

Meet With a Naperville, IL Family Law Attorney Today

It is a judge’s responsibility to make a final decision regarding child custody. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., our DuPage County, IL child custody lawyer can make a sound recommendation to the judge based on your family’s unique circumstances. 

Don Pesce is qualified to act as a guardian ad litem or an attorney for the child. To schedule a free consultation today, call our offices at 630-352-2240.