What is a guardian ad litem? And do you want one in your case? 

[00:00:00]In Oklahoma, high conflict cases, a court may appoint something called a guardian ad litem. What are they and should you want one? A guardian ad litem, often called a GAL, is someone that the courts appoint to represent the best interest of the children. Not the children and not the parents, but the best interest of the children. Their job is to investigate the situation for the kids, talking to parents and teachers, reviewing records like medical records, report cards, and then they compile all that information into a report that they provide to the attorneys and the court.

[00:00:36]And in that report is often a recommendation, or more frequently, a series of recommendations that they believe are in the best interest of the child. A judge doesn't have to follow those recommendations, but they can be very persuasive. So, it's important, if a GAL is appointed in your case, that you treat every interaction with that person like a job interview. Be honest, be prepared, have all your documents together. That way, you're putting yourself in the best position possible for success.

[00:01:04]I'm Brad Cunningham and every week we're breaking down Oklahoma family law, the stuff you need to know. So, follow and drop your questions in the comments below.