Guardian Ad Litem Attorney Miami
When child custody becomes contested or allegations of abuse, neglect, or instability arise, Florida courts may appoint a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) to represent the best interests of the child. A Guardian Ad Litem is there as a pro-child advocate who investigates the family situation, speaks with everyone involved—including the child—and makes best interest recommendations to the court about custody, time-sharing, and parenting plans. As a court-appointed Guardian Ad Litem, Marisol Cruz brings years of experience in family law to each investigation, with a clear focus on protecting children’s rights and emotional well-being.
What is a Guardian Ad Litem and What Do They Do?
The role of a Guardian Ad Litem in Florida is to serve as the court’s eyes and ears when determining what is in the child’s best interest as it relates to Parental Responsibility (decision making) and Time-sharing (visitation). Unlike an attorney who represents a parent, a GAL does not advocate for either party. Instead, their job is to independently evaluate the facts, assess the child’s situation, and provide a written report to the court.
Responsibilities of a Guardian Ad Litem include:
- Conducting interviews with both parents or guardians
- Speaking with the child (if age appropriate)
- Interviewing teachers, doctors, therapists, and family members
- Reviewing school records, medical reports, and court files
- Observing parent-child interactions
- Making a written best interest recommendation to the court
These recommendations often influence the court’s decision in custody or time-sharing disputes. Judges rely on the GAL’s objective findings to determine whether Shared Parental Responsibility (joint custody), Sole Parental Responsibility (sole custody), or a specific time-sharing schedule is in the child’s best interests.
When Is a Guardian Ad Litem Appointed?
Florida courts may appoint a Guardian Ad Litem in any family law case involving minor children, but they are especially common if the children may be affected by:
- Parental alienation
- Child abuse or neglect
- Domestic violence in the household
- High-conflict custody battles
- Significant disagreements about parenting plans
In some cases, one parent may request that a Guardian Ad Litem be appointed. In others, the court may do so on its own. The Guardian Ad Litem is not there to take sides, but rather to bring clarity, truth, and focus back to what matters most: the child’s best interest, including their safety and emotional development.
How Marisol Cruz Serves as a Guardian Ad Litem
Marisol Cruz takes her responsibility as a GAL seriously. With years of experience handling sensitive family law matters, she approaches each case with objectivity, compassion, and legal precision. Her GAL work includes:
- Prompt scheduling of interviews and home visits
- Thorough record and background review
- Clear and comprehensive reporting to the court
- Attendance at hearings to explain her findings
- Ongoing communication with the parties’ attorneys as needed
Her ability to remain neutral and focused on the child’s needs—while understanding the legal context—makes her a respected Guardian Ad Litem in South Florida’s family law courts.
What to Expect If a GAL Has Been Appointed in Your Case
If a Guardian Ad Litem has been appointed in your case, you and the other parent will be expected to cooperate with the investigation. This includes attending interviews, providing access to relevant records, and following through with requested steps (such as allowing home visits). A failure to cooperate could negatively influence the GAL’s recommendation to the court.
The GAL’s final report will include observations, findings, and best interest recommendations. The court gives considerable weight to this document, especially when parental conflict is severe or a child is too young to express preferences.
How a GAL Recommendation Affects Your Custody Case
While the judge is not legally required to follow the Guardian Ad Litem’s recommendations, they are often highly persuasive. The GAL provides insight that may not be otherwise available—especially when conflicting allegations or unclear family dynamics exist. A strong recommendation from a GAL could impact:
- Whether shared or sole parental responsibility is awarded
- The specifics of a parenting plan and time-sharing schedule
- Supervised visitation requirements
- Conditions placed on parental decision-making
If you are concerned about how the GAL might impact your custody case, it’s crucial to work with an attorney who can help you understand the process, communicate effectively, and protect your parental rights during the investigation.
Working With Cruz Legal, P.A.
Whether you are requesting a Guardian Ad Litem, responding to one being appointed, or involved in a case where Marisol Cruz is serving as GAL, Cruz Legal, P.A. brings insight, professionalism, and deep knowledge of the family law system to your case. Our office is committed to helping children and families through legal processes with dignity and clarity. We keep you informed, prepared, and focused on what matters most—your child’s well-being.
Do You Need Legal Representation When a GAL Is Involved?
Yes. When a Guardian Ad Litem is appointed, the case is no longer just about what one parent says vs. the other—it’s about what an outside investigator believes to be in the child’s best interest. Working with a family law attorney who understands the GAL process, like Marisol Cruz, helps ensure that your cooperation, conduct, and parenting strengths are presented accurately and clearly throughout the case.
Let’s Talk About Your Case
When the court appoints a Guardian Ad Litem, it’s a signal that your case has serious issues that need professional investigation. Whether you’re working with a GAL or need one appointed, Cruz Legal, P.A. offers the legal insight and guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
Call our office to schedule a consultation and get the support you deserve.