How to Work with a Guardian ad Litem in Your Florida Family Law Case

When you're navigating a family law case in Florida, especially one involving child custody, it's not uncommon for a judge to appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL). For many parents, hearing that a GAL will be involved feels overwhelming. Who are they? What do they do? And—most importantly—how can you make sure your side of the story is heard?

As a Florida family law attorney and former family therapist, I've worked with dozens of GALs over the years. In this post, I'll break down what you need to know and how to work effectively with a GAL in your case.

What Is a Guardian ad Litem?

A Guardian ad Litem is a neutral third party—often an attorney or trained advocate—appointed by the court to investigate and report on what is in the best interests of the child. They act as the “eyes and ears” of the judge in situations where custody, time-sharing, or parental fitness is in dispute.

They don't represent you or the other parent. They don't make decisions. Their role is strictly investigative and advisory: to help the court better understand the child's life, needs, and family dynamics.

Why Would a GAL Be Appointed?

GALs are commonly appointed when there are:

• Allegations of abuse or neglect

• Domestic violence concerns

• Questions about a parent's mental health or substance use

• High-conflict custody or parenting disputes

• Concerns that cannot be resolved with limited testimony alone

What to Expect During the GAL Investigation

The GAL will typically:

• Interview both parents (and the child, if appropriate)

• Review documents, school and medical records

• Speak with collateral witnesses like teachers, therapists, and relatives

• Possibly conduct home visits (often virtually in today's world)

• Submit a written report to the court with their findings and recommendations

How to Work Effectively with the GAL

This is where strategy and mindset really matter. The GAL is watching—not just what you say, but how you say it, how you behave, and how child-focused you are. Here's how to position yourself well:

1. Be Organized and Concise
Create a timeline or summary of your concerns, grouped by theme (e.g., substance use, mental health, lack of follow-through). Back up each theme with a few key examples—don't dump 300 screenshots. Clarity wins.

2. Prioritize Your Child's Needs Over Winning
The GAL is focused on what's best for your child—not on who's “right.” Show that you are cooperative, reasonable, and child-focused.

3. Provide Helpful Witnesses
Offer names and contact info for people who can objectively support your concerns—teachers, therapists, doctors, etc.

4. Don't Overshare or Oversell
Avoid long, emotional monologues. Stick to what matters. Think of this as a professional presentation—not a personal therapy session.

5. Discuss Key Communications With Your Lawyer First
Before submitting anything major to the GAL (like your timeline or documents), run it by your attorney. We can help you fine-tune and ensure your information supports your case instead of unintentionally weakening it.

Should You Worry the GAL Is Investigating You Too?

Maybe—but probably not. A GAL's job is to investigate anything relevant to the child's well-being. If the other parent makes accusations against you, the GAL will follow up. But if there's no fire behind the smoke, it will likely be a short inquiry.

Stay consistent. Be honest. Show the same version of yourself to everyone involved.

What If You Disagree With the GAL's Report?

The GAL's recommendation carries a lot of weight, but it's not final. If the report is inaccurate or you disagree with the findings, your attorney can present counter-evidence, witness testimony, or alternative expert opinions. Don't panic—but do prepare.

Final Thoughts

Working with a Guardian ad Litem can be one of the most impactful parts of your case. Your goal is not to “win them over” but to make their job easier—by being organized, respectful, and focused on your child's best interests.

If you're involved in a case with a GAL—or suspect one may be appointed soon—let's talk. At Family Matters Law Group, P.A., we help clients prepare for GAL investigations, organize evidence, and develop child-centered strategies that hold up in court.

Need help with your case?
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