How To Deal With Difficult Personalities as a GALBy Erin Wilson, Juliana Brannan, & Emily RuweFamily Law, July 2025When a Guardian ad Litem ("GAL") is appointed on a case, they must interact with many individuals to conduct a thorough investigation. This can involve having difficult conversations with individuals who are experiencing significant emotional distress, conflict, or just general challenges.
The Work of a GAL and Lessons LearnedBy Judge Maureen SchuetteYoung Lawyers Division, May 2025Judge Schuette provides insight and guidance from her days as a Guardian Ad Litem.
The Work of a GAL and Lessons LearnedBy Judge Maureen SchuetteFamily Law, April 2025Judge Schuette provides insight and guidance from her days as a Guardian Ad Litem.
The Work of a GAL and Lessons LearnedBy Judge Maureen SchuetteBench and Bar, April 2025Judge Schuette provides insight and guidance from her days as a Guardian Ad Litem.
Best Practices for Guardians ad Litem and Getting PaidBy Christopher B. Smith & Leslie A. WoodFamily Law, July 2023Advocacy for guardians ad litem is constantly evolving, however, there are certain practices that are generally accepted throughout the state as best practices.
Appointing a GAL? The Language You Use Is Important!By Hon. Donald Bernardi, (ret.)Bench and Bar, October 2020A recent Illinois Supreme Court case suggests that both judges and practitioners ought to pay careful attention to the purpose of guardian ad litem appointment.
Preserving Immunity for GALs in Juvenile Abuse CasesBy Judge Martin MengarelliChild Law, August 2019In Nichols v. Fahrenkamp, the Illinois Supreme Court addressed the issue of quasi-judicial immunity for guardians ad litem.
Does a guardian ad litem have immunity in a minor’s guardianship proceeding?By Patrick KinnallyTrusts and Estates, March 2019In Vlastelica v. Brend, the appellate court held that a child representative in a family law case enjoys absolute immunity from civil liability claims of legal malpractice, breach of fiduciary duty, and interference with a parent’s child custody rights.
Does a guardian ad litem have immunity in a minor’s guardianship proceeding?By Patrick KinnallyCivil Practice and Procedure, January 2019In Vlastelica v. Brend, the appellate court held that a child representative in a family law case enjoys absolute immunity from civil liability claims of legal malpractice, breach of fiduciary duty, and interference with a parent’s child custody rights.
Guardian ad litem negligenceBy Gary L. Schlesinger & Rachael BernalCivil Practice and Procedure, September 2018In the recent case Nichols v. Fahrenkamp, the fifth appellate district decided a case involving negligence of a guardian ad litem in probate court.
Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?By Sherwin D. AbramsTrusts and Estates, August 2018An analysis of the recent case Nichols v. Fahrenkamp.
Ethical concerns for guardians ad litemBy Leslie WoodChild Law, December 2016Though a party may request a GAL, only the court has statutory power to appoint a guardian ad litem. Depending on the type of case, a GAL appointment may be required by statute or local court rule, or may be appointed at the discretion of the court.
Mind your Ps and Qs: Some tips for interviewing kidsBy Michael W. RaridonChild Law, September 2016The author, a GAL with more than 27 years' experience, shares his ideas for how to serve the best interests of the children.
The Second District gives lessons for the guardian ad litemBy Lisa M. NyuliFamily Law, August 2012The Second District Appellate Court recently issued its opinion in In re the Marriage of Petrik, and in so doing, provided several good rules and reminders for attorneys acting as Guardian ad Litem.
10 best tips from a GAL perspectiveBy Lisa M. NyuliFamily Law, May 2012A list of tips of interest to GALs and attorneys representing the parties in custody, visitation and removal disputes.
The role of the Guardian ad Litem in litigation: Clearly unclearBy Henry D. Kass, J.D.Child Law, December 2008In a recent edition of the Family Law Bulletin, Thomas Else wrote about the role of the Guardian ad Litem in domestic relations litigation and argued that the role is quite defined.
The role of a Guardian Ad Litem in litigation: Not just a witnessBy Thomas A. Else, J.D. & Sean McCumber, J.D.Family Law, September 2008The role a Guardian Ad Litem in custody litigation is sometimes confused as to whether the Guardian (GAL) may be allowed to both testify as a witness and to advocate on behalf of the children as an attorney participating in the litigation.
The role of the GAL in family law casesBy Susan M. BrazasGeneral Practice, Solo, and Small Firm, May 2008In recent years, many circuit courts have made increasing numbers of appointments of Guardians Ad Litem in custody and visitation matters.
The role of the GAL in family law casesBy Susan M. BrazasChild Law, May 2008In recent years, many circuit courts have made increasing numbers of appointments of Guardians Ad Litem in custody and visitation matters.
Pro bono cornerBy Michael G. BergmannChild Law, September 2006Each newsletter, this section will provide information on pro bono opportunities available throughout the State of Illinois that focus on children.
Representing the child in proceedings under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage ActBy Melanie CaspiWomen and the Law, February 2004Section 506 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act authorizes the court, on its own motion or by motion of either party, to appoint an attorney to represent the children "in proceedings involving the support, custody, visitation, education, parentage, property interest or general welfare of a minor or dependent child."
