When Illinois courts face a high-conflict custody case, there is often a shift from cooperative co-parenting to a structured parallel parenting plan designed to limit contact and reduce conflict. Oversight by a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) (750 ILCS 5/506) can shape everything from communication protocols to how exchanges are structured. The GAL acts as the court’s investigator and makes recommendations based on the child’s best interests.
Many parents fail to understand just how far a GAL’s authority extends and how his or her recommendations influence the judge. While the judge will make the final decision on the parenting plan, the GAL’s report carries significant weight. If you are facing decisions in an Illinois family court about the allocation of parental responsibilities (750 ILCS 5/602.7) and parenting time, you should be aware of the importance of the GAL in shaping long-term decisions about how and when you will parent. Having a strong, experienced Will County, IL family law attorney by your side ensures the best outcome for you and your child.