Child custody disputes can be one of the most challenging aspects of divorce or separation. In New Jersey, two crucial roles often come into play to ensure that children’s best interests are prioritized: the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) and the Parenting Coordinator (PC). South Jersey Divorce Solutions helps you understand how these roles interact and can provide clarity and support for parents going through this process.
What is a Guardian Ad Litem?
A guardian ad litem (GAL) is a court-appointed advocate for a child involved in a custody dispute. Their primary role is representing the child’s best interests during legal proceedings. The GAL investigates the circumstances of the child’s living situation and the parent’s ability to provide a stable and supportive environment. This may involve meeting with the child, interviewing parents and other relevant individuals, and reviewing documentation related to the case.
New Jersey state law, NJ Rev Stat § 9:17-47 (2024), allows the family court to appoint an attorney or appropriate state agency as the child’s guardian ad litem. The 42 U.S. Code Chapter 67, the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, requires states to appoint guardians ad litem for children in abuse or neglect proceedings.
What is a Parenting Coordinator?
A Parenting Coordinator (PC) is a neutral third-party professional who assists parents in resolving child custody and parenting time disputes. The PC helps facilitate communication and cooperation between parents, aiming to provide a structured approach to co-parenting. They can make recommendations on certain issues, help develop parenting plans, and guide parents in implementing effective co-parenting strategies.
South Jersey Divorce Solutions helps families address concerns and resolve disputes through the New Jersey Parenting Coordinator Program.
How Does a GAL Work with a Parenting Coordinator?
The GAL and Parenting Coordinator have similar functions with the same goal. Their cooperative effort looks like this:
- Collaboration for the Child’s Best Interests: Both the GAL and the PC focus on the child’s welfare. The GAL assesses the child’s needs, while the PC helps parents address them effectively. When working together, they share insights and observations that can lead to more informed recommendations and solutions.
- Information Sharing: The GAL may provide the PC with critical information regarding the child’s preferences, concerns, and living conditions. This data can help the PC formulate effective parenting strategies and interventions.
- Supporting Parental Communication: The PC often facilitates communication between parents who may struggle to coordinate effectively. The GAL can help identify issues that need addressing, enabling the PC to target and improve specific areas of conflict.
- Decision Making: While the GAL may be involved in making recommendations to the court based on the child’s needs and the family dynamics, the PC may assist in implementing these recommendations within the co-parenting relationship. This collaborative approach can lead to more effective parenting arrangements.
- Focus on Long-Term Solutions: Both the GAL and the PC aim to support a stable and healthy environment for the child. Through their joint efforts, they foster long-term solutions that go beyond immediate disputes, promoting a better parenting dynamic.
Work with a Certified New Jersey Parenting Coordinator Attorney
In New Jersey’s family law system, the roles of a guardian ad litem and a parenting coordinator are complementary. While the GAL champions the child’s best interests during legal proceedings, the PC assists parents in navigating their co-parenting relationship. By collaborating effectively, these professionals can enhance the outcomes for children involved in custody disputes, ensuring that their needs are prioritized and addressed throughout the process.
- Could a parenting coordinator enhance your family’s decision-making process?
- Has the court suggested a parenting coordinator for your case?
- Has the court appointed a guardian ad litem for your child?
Learn more from our Parenting Coordination FAQ here.
If you find yourself in a situation requiring the guidance of a GAL or a PC, please call (856) 733-0229 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with Melissa Fecak, Esq., a trained and certified parenting coordinator in Merchantville and Camden County, New Jersey. Her expertise can be instrumental in achieving the best possible outcome for you and your child.