Address a Child’s Best Interests During Divorce
If you are in the middle of a child custody case, you may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or worried about whether your child’s voice is being heard. When parents disagree about what is best, the process can feel confusing and emotionally heavy.
You are not alone. Utah courts understand how difficult these cases can be. That is why, in some situations, the court appoints a guardian ad litem to focus only on one thing: the child’s best interests.
At Haven Law, our attorneys serve as private guardians ad litem. We understand the pressure families are under, the weight of these decisions, and the responsibility the court places on a GAL. Our role is to bring clarity, neutrality, and careful attention to what truly serves the child.
If you are here because you want a fair, experienced, and child-focused guardian ad litem, you are in the right place.
What Is a Guardian ad Litem?
A guardian ad litem, often called a GAL, is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child in a legal case.
A GAL is not a judge and does not take sides. The GAL’s job is to independently gather information and help the court understand what the child needs in order to be safe, supported, and stable.
This role exists because custody cases can become emotional, and the child’s needs can get lost in conflict. A guardian ad litem brings the focus back to the child.
When Is a Private Guardian ad Litem Used?
Private guardians ad litem are often used when custody decisions are especially sensitive or contested. This may include:
- High-conflict divorce cases
- Disagreements over custody or parent-time
- Concerns about a child’s safety or well-being
- Situations where parents strongly disagree on what is best
- Cases where the court needs an independent investigation
In these moments, having a trusted neutral voice can help the court move forward with clarity.
What Does a Private Guardian ad Litem Do?
A private guardian ad litem has clear legal duties under Utah law. These responsibilities are centered on understanding the child’s full situation and helping the court make informed decisions.
A private GAL may:
- Represent the child’s best interests
- Conduct an independent investigation
- Review records related to the child and family
- Interview parents, witnesses, and professionals
- Meet with and speak to the child when allowed
- Understand the child’s concerns and goals
- Keep the child informed about the case
- Attend court hearings and conferences
- Present evidence and recommendations
- Advocate for helpful services and resources
- Participate in appeals if required
This work is done carefully and with respect for the child and family.
Does a Guardian ad Litem Represent the Child’s Wishes?
A guardian ad litem represents the child’s best interests, which may not always match what the child wants.
If the child’s wishes differ from what the GAL believes is best, the GAL may share both with the court. This allows the judge to understand the child’s perspective while still prioritizing safety and long-term well-being.
Why Experience Matters in a Private Guardian ad Litem
Guardian ad litem recommendations often carry significant weight with the court. Judges rely on GALs to provide clear, balanced, and well-supported insights.
An experienced private GAL knows how to:
- Ask the right questions
- Recognize important issues early
- Communicate clearly with children and adults
- Provide practical, child-centered recommendations
Experience helps protect the child and supports better decision-making.
How Haven Law Serves as a Private Guardian ad Litem
At Haven Law, we approach the role of private guardian ad litem with care, humility, and seriousness. We understand that families come to this process during some of the hardest moments of their lives.
Our attorneys are known for:
- Neutral and thoughtful investigations
- Clear communication with parents and the court
- Strong knowledge of Utah custody standards
- Respect for the child’s voice and experience
- Professional, steady advocacy focused on the child
We do not take sides. We focus on what helps the child most.
What Should You Do Next?
If you are involved in a custody case and are considering a private guardian ad litem, the next step is a conversation.
Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand:
- Whether a private GAL is appropriate for your case
- How the appointment process works
- What the role will look like in practice
Contact Haven Law to schedule a confidential consultation. We are here to listen, answer questions, and help you decide the best path forward for your child.
You do not have to navigate this alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Private Guardians ad Litem
Who pays for a private guardian ad litem in Utah?
In Utah, both parents are responsible for paying the private guardian ad litem’s fees. Most private GALs charge an hourly rate.
The court decides how the costs are divided between the parents. This does not always mean the fees are split evenly. The judge may consider the details of the case and each parent’s financial situation when deciding how payment is handled.
How is a private guardian ad litem appointed in Utah?
A private guardian ad litem is appointed by the court, but only after both parents agree on a specific attorney.
Utah courts keep a list of approved attorneys who can serve as guardians ad litem. If the parents do not agree on a GAL, the court will usually choose one from that list.
When parents stipulate to the same attorney, they can ask the court to appoint that person as the private guardian ad litem. This allows families to choose someone they trust and who has the right experience for their child’s case.
Is a private guardian ad litem right for my case?
A private guardian ad litem may be a good fit if your custody case is highly disputed, emotionally complex, or involves concerns about a child’s safety or well-being.
Families often choose a private GAL when parents strongly disagree, when they want more confidence in who is appointed, or when they believe a careful, independent investigation will help the court make the best decision for the child.