A Guardian ad Litem – or court appointed guardian – provides an independent voice in court to children involved in family law proceedings. The Guardian Ad Litem is an experienced and qualified person, with expertise in working with children. The person will in most cases be appointed by the Court, and has a 2-fold role:
A Guardian ad Litem is most commonly appointed in Child Care Cases, when the State is making application to place a child in care. Our role as solicitors is to independently provide the Guardian ad Litem with legal advice and guidance as the case progresses through court, and to represent the Guardian ad Litem in Court.
If a couple involved in an Access or Custody Dispute wish to obtain the independent guidance of a Guardian ad Litem, the parties can choose to privately pay for the service. In these types of cases, usually conflict is high and couples find it hard to reach agreement. The Guardian can assist in bringing the child’s views, wishes and best interested to the attention of everyone.
If you need advice or support on any of the issues raised above, please call Alan Finnerty on 01 637 6200. Or you can email him at alan.finnerty@orpenfranks.ie
