Guardian ad Litem Support
As a Florida State Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator and a Qualified Parenting Coordinator, Dr. Wendy Coughlin hopes all families can cooperate to create Parenting Plans in the best interests of the children. Unfortunately, that is not always possible. In those cases, parents, attorneys, or the Court may initiate an order to appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL). A GAL is appointed to assist all parties in determining what will serve the best interests of the child(ren).
How the GAL Process Works
Step 1: Parent Meetings
Dr. Coughlin begins her GAL investigations by meeting with each parent to understand their perspectives regarding the children.
Step 2: Child Meetings
- Adolescents are often invited to meet in the office, followed by meetings at home, school, or another public setting.
- Children 10 and older are usually seen individually as well as with each parent.
- Younger children may be seen in sibling groups in addition to parent–child sessions.
- The number of sessions with parents and children is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Step 3: Collateral Information
GAL work also involves gathering collateral information, which may include:
- School and medical records
- Phone interviews with family and friends
- Mental health evaluations
- Other relevant documents or reports
A Message from Dr. Coughlin:
“A Guardian ad Litem gives the children a voice in the process while keeping their best interests at the center of every decision.”
