We have a court appointed one coming out on Monday for my grandson. What can we expect?

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~Happiness is a large family~

I wish I knew what to tell you!! I just saw this.

Did you try looking up any info on the internet??

Big Hugs to you and good luck today!!

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I've grown certain that the root of all fear is that we've been forced to deny who we are. ~ Frances Moore Lappe

I found this link....didn't read through it all...but maybe it will help

Guardians Ad Litem

Just from what I did read.....they are making sure the he is NOT abused or neglected in any way....

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I've grown certain that the root of all fear is that we've been forced to deny who we are. ~ Frances Moore Lappe

That looks like a good link that she found.
I used to work with Divorce attorneys and one of them acted as a GAL on a few occasions. It always reminded me of a caseworker, she would meet with the parties separately (I don't think it was ever together), visit the homes, talk with the child if they were older and then make a recommendation for the child.
Good luck!

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Amanda
Mommy to Zack & Emily

I worked with a guardian ad-litum for my divorce a few years ago.Unfortunatly she was not working with my childrens best interests at heart.She took my ex-husbands side over the children.Just make sure the guardian is only interested in the best interest of the child.

I am in Wisconsin. Here, a typical visit with a guardian ad litem (who is court-ordered to represent the child's interest in any legal matters), will basically consist of the following:

They will observe you with your child. They want to see the interaction that occurs between you and watch for your reactions to your child, and, your child's reactions to you.

They will want a tour of your home, paticularly any places the child will frequently be (his bedroom, playroom, backyard, and living areas of the home).

They will talk to you and ask if you have any concerns about your ex's ability to parent: alcohol / drug abuse, domestic violence issues, etc.

They will probably talk to your child alone. Here, a child over 4 or so will be asked about thier life and family.

The GAL will want to know about your support network. They will want to know that you have family nearby, a stable job, friends, etc. If you have taken any classes regarding positive parenting or attend playgroups with your child, be sure to bring it up.

The GAL will want to know about your other children, and, may want to talk to them also. Close sibling relationships are important. Of course, kids can fight and say cruel stuff about one another, but, general emotion is sincere.

Lastly, not to "stage" the house, but, having out pictures of you and your child enjoying activities together, or having educational books out, the scent of chocolate chip cookies baking, fresh flowers, "Little Einstien", all set the scene for a "positive" evaluation.

Remember that they will be making the same observations and asking the same questions of your ex. If there is an area where you shine above him (perhaps you have wonderful parents that your child enjoys a great relationship with), feel free to emphasize this.

HTH! Good luck!