Palm Beach Guardian ad Litem

Advocating for Children’s Best Interests in Family Law Proceedings

When parents cannot agree on parental responsibility, timesharing, or other issues affecting their children, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to conduct an independent investigation and make recommendations based on the best interests of the child. The GAL serves as the eyes and ears of the court. They are an objective professional whose sole responsibility is to protect the welfare of the children involved in the case in which a GAL has been appointed to serve..

Attorney C. Debra Welch is a trained mental health counselor and an experienced GAL and Attorney ad Litem who is frequently appointed by the court or retained by other attorneys to assist with their most sensitive family law cases. Her unique combination of legal expertise and psychological training allows her to develop thoughtful, protective recommendations that give children increased opportunities to thrive.

What Does a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Do?

A GAL is appointed to represent the best interests of a child in a family law case. Unlike the attorneys who represent each parent, the GAL does not act as an attorney. Instead, the GAL conducts an independent investigation, which typically includes:

• Interviewing both parents, the child (when age-appropriate), and other significant individuals in the child’s life, such as teachers, counselors, and family members
• Observing each parent’s home environment and their interactions with the child
• Reviewing relevant records, including school reports, medical records, and any existing court documents
• Consulting with mental health professionals, physicians, or other experts as needed
• Preparing a written report with recommendations for the court to consider

The GAL’s report and testimony may carry significant weight with the court. Judges sometimes rely heavily on the GAL’s firsthand observations and professional judgment when making decisions about custody, timesharing, and parental responsibility.

Guardian ad Litem (GAL) vs. Attorney ad Litem (AAL)

It is important to understand the distinction between these two roles, as they serve different functions in Florida family law cases:

• Guardian ad Litem (GAL): Represents the best interests of the child. The GAL makes recommendations to the court about what would best serve the child’s welfare, even if that recommendation differs from what the child says he or she wants.
• Attorney ad Litem (AAL): Represents the expressed wishes of the child. The AAL advocates for what the child says they want, ensuring the child’s voice is directly heard in the legal process.

Attorney Welch is qualified to serve in both capacities, providing families and the court with the benefit of her combined legal and mental health background.