Charleston Guardian ad Litem: Protecting Your Child’s Best Interests

When family law matters such as child custody issues become contentious, it may be necessary to designate someone to serve as the voice for your child. In the South Carolina legal process, this role is called a Charleston guardian ad litem. Whether both parties to a divorce agree to use one, or the court decides the child is best served by having an advocate, a committed legal professional from Geel & Gentry, LLC can guide you through the process.

Understanding the Duties of a Charleston Guardian ad Litem

A Charleston guardian ad litem acts as a legal advocate for the child to ensure their interests are safeguarded throughout a family law dispute. This includes cases such as:

• Child custody and visitation disputes

• Child support matters

• Termination or recognition of parental rights

In addition to advocating for the child, the guardian ad litem serves as an officer of the court. Their job is to delve deep into the circumstances of the case and convey their findings to a judge. These results are vital in helping the court decide the ultimate assessment of custody and visitation time allotted to each parent.

What Happens After a Guardian ad Litem is Appointed?

When a Charleston guardian ad litem is assigned to a family law case, they begin an investigation process that the court heavily considers. To form a complete picture, they may evaluate:

• The specific desires of each parent and the child

• The level of collaboration between each parent

• Home environments through on-site visits

• Interviews with family members, doctors, and teachers

The Investigation and Final Report

While the court has the final say, the investigation conducted by the Charleston guardian ad litem serves as a vital guide for the judge. They have the authority to analyze relevant records, such as educational and medical reports, to ensure their final report is detailed and accurate. The overarching interests of the child remain their primary concern throughout the litigation.

Consult a Charleston Guardian ad Litem at Our Firm

We understand that having a third party investigate your family dynamic can lead to many questions. At Geel & Gentry, LLC we have the background to answer your concerns and ensure your case proceeds smoothly.

Call our firm today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.