Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Representation
When families are involved in difficult custody or juvenile court matters, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to help ensure a child's best interests remain at the center of the case.
A Guardian ad Litem is an attorney appointed by the court to independently investigate and advocate for what is in a child's best interests during legal proceedings. Importantly, a GAL does not represent the parents, caregivers, or even the child as a traditional client would be represented. The GAL serves as a neutral third party whose role is to assist the court — not any individual party — in reaching decisions that protect the child's safety, wellbeing, and long-term stability. In Nebraska, attorneys serving as GALs in juvenile court must complete specialized certification through the Nebraska Supreme Court, including training in child development, trauma-informed interviewing, and the legal standards governing best-interest determinations.
GALs are commonly appointed in cases involving Child Protective Services (CPS), abuse or neglect allegations, contested custody disputes, guardianships, adoptions, and other matters where a child's safety or welfare is in question.
At McGill Law, our attorneys have experience serving as Guardian ad Litem in Nebraska juvenile and family court matters. This work typically involves an independent investigation — speaking with the child, parents, caregivers, therapists, teachers, medical providers, and caseworkers; reviewing school, medical, and court records; observing the child's environments where appropriate; and participating in hearings. The GAL then provides recommendations to the court to help the judge make informed decisions about the child's care and custody.
It is worth noting that in some proceedings involving older children, a child may also have separate counsel to express the child's own wishes, while the GAL continues to address the child's best interests. These two roles can sometimes reach different conclusions, and both are valuable to the court's analysis.
In private family law cases, GAL fees are typically allocated between the parties by court order; in juvenile court matters, GAL services are generally funded by the county.
These appointments arise in some of the most emotionally complex situations a family can face. Our attorneys approach Guardian ad Litem work with compassion, professionalism, and a deep respect for the responsibility of advocating for children and supporting thoughtful outcomes for families.
If you have questions about Guardian ad Litem appointments or are involved in a juvenile or family court matter involving a child, our team is here to help you better understand the process and your options, 402-548-5418.
Guardian ad Litem FAQs
What is a Guardian ad Litem?
A Guardian ad Litem, often called a GAL, is an attorney appointed by the court to independently investigate and advocate for what is in a child’s best interests during a legal case.
Does a Guardian ad Litem represent the child?
Not in the same way an attorney represents a traditional client. A GAL does not represent the parents, caregivers, or even the child as a client. The GAL serves as a neutral third party whose role is to assist the court in making decisions that protect the child’s safety, wellbeing, and long-term stability.
When is a Guardian ad Litem appointed?
GALs are commonly appointed in cases involving Child Protective Services, abuse or neglect allegations, contested custody disputes, guardianships, adoptions, and other matters where a child’s safety or welfare is in question.
What does a Guardian ad Litem do?
A GAL may speak with the child, parents, caregivers, therapists, teachers, medical providers, and caseworkers. The GAL may also review school, medical, and court records, observe the child’s environment when appropriate, participate in hearings, and provide recommendations to the court.
Who pays for a Guardian ad Litem?
In private family law cases, GAL fees are typically allocated between the parties by court order. In juvenile court matters, GAL services are generally funded by the county.
Who handles Guardian ad Litem matters at McGill Law?
At McGill Law, Guardian ad Litem matters are handled by Taylor Matthias in Lincoln and Bri Cotton in Omaha.
Guardian ad Litem Attorneys
Guardian ad Litem matters at McGill Law are handled by attorneys who work with children, families, schools, providers, and the courts in sensitive juvenile and family law matters.
Taylor Matthias
Supervising Attorney | Lincoln Office
Taylor Matthias handles Guardian ad Litem appointments in Lincoln, advocating for children’s best interests in juvenile and family court matters involving custody, safety, stability, and wellbeing.
Bri Cotton
Associate Attorney | Omaha Office
Bri Cotton handles Guardian ad Litem matters in Omaha, working with children, families, caregivers, providers, and the court in cases involving a child’s safety and best interests.
Questions about Guardian ad Litem appointments or juvenile court matters involving a child?