How to Respond to a Guardian ad Litem Investigation

 Posted on November 21, 2025 in Child Custody

In especially difficult or complex custody disputes, the courts may send out a guardian ad litem (GAL) to investigate a child’s home life and gather relevant information to help inform a judge’s decision. If you are worried about an ongoing or impending GAL investigation, reach out to a Kane County, IL family law attorney for strong legal advice and counsel.

The findings of a GAL investigation may play a major role in the final allocation of custody and should be taken seriously. At Weiler & Associates, Inc., we have guided families through challenging divorces and child custody cases, so you can rely on us to provide you with effective legal guidance throughout your case.

Three Tips for Parents in Guardian ad Litem Investigations

Cooperate With the GAL

In a contested child custody case, it is not uncommon for parents to take adversarial positions against one another. However, the guardian ad litem does not take either parent’s side in a dispute; instead, he or she focuses solely on the child’s best interests (750 ILCS 5/506). For that reason, it is important that you cooperate with the GAL’s requests throughout your case, which may involve setting up interview times, allowing your child to speak with the GAL, or providing your child’s school or medical records.

Showing a willingness to cooperate is important, since any potential obstruction of the investigation could be noted in the GAL’s final report and shared with the judge.

Answer Questions Honestly

Interviews are a major component of a guardian ad litem investigation. The questions asked by a GAL may not always be easy to answer, but being earnest and willing to admit your flaws will reflect better on you than trying to cover up past mistakes. You can also take the time in the interview to show how you have taken accountability for your missteps and grown.

On a related note, you should not make any attempt to coach your child before an interview. If you are accused of engaging in parental alienation by turning your child against your spouse, it will reflect poorly on you in the GAL’s report to the judge.

Prepare for a Home Visit

During a guardian ad litem’s investigation, you may be visited at your home by the guardian ad litem. The GAL will take notes about the overall safety of the home and whether it promotes a stable upbringing for your child. Since the guardian ad litem may show up without prior notice, being prepared for a visit at any time is critical.

If you are expecting a visit during an investigation, you should try to keep your home tidy and presentable. This does not necessarily mean keeping your home spotless, but any potential hazards should be addressed in advance. This might include child-proofing doors and cleaning up the kitchen and bathrooms.

Contact a St. Charles, IL Child Custody Lawyer

At Weiler & Associates, Inc., we help parents prepare for the hurdles of divorce. Our firm is here to guide you through a GAL investigation so that you can make a strong impression on the judge. To schedule an initial consultation today, call our Kane County, IL family law attorneys at 630-331-9110.