Guardians ad Litem 

Understanding family law, including the role of a guardian ad litem (GAL), can be complex and overwhelming at times. In Utah, a GAL can be appointed by the court to represent the best interests of children involved in cases like divorce or child custody disputes. Emotions run high in family law cases, often clouding judgment, leading to poor behavior and misconceptions. To address this, a GAL may be appointed to advocate for the child, ensuring they’re represented throughout the legal process. At Christensen Law, we understand the importance of protecting families and we’re committed to providing clarity on a GAL’s part in court proceedings. We hope this FAQ sheds light on the role and responsibilities of a guardian ad litem in Utah family law cases.

What is a Guardian ad Litem (GAL)?

• In Utah, a GAL is a court-appointed advocate responsible for representing the best interests of children in various family law cases, such as divorce, child custody, protective order, juvenile, or child support disputes. Guided by Utah law (Utah Code § 78A-6-1105), a GAL should conduct thorough investigations, interview relevant parties, and submit reports to the court regarding the child’s welfare. They are tasked to consider the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs, ensuring a direct approach not filtered by either parent.

What are the Responsibilities of a Guardian ad Litem?

• A GAL in Utah undertakes various tasks aimed at safeguarding the child’s best interests. Their duties include conducting investigations, interviewing relevant parties, and making recommendations to the court based on the child’s welfare. GALs advocate for the child’s needs during court proceedings, ensuring their voice is heard and their rights are protected. They adhere to ethical and professional standards outlined in the Utah Rules of Professional Conduct.