Guardianship Services in Albuquerque for Your Family
Understanding the Role of a Guardian ad Litem
A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) acts in the capacity of “friend of the Court,” and most people think of the GAL as the attorney for the children, particularly in high conflict cases. GAL’s are mandatory in opposed Kinship Guardianship cases and are appointed by the court in other custody cases in which the minor cannot successfully represent himself or herself, their parents are not married, or both.
Key Responsibilities of a Guardian ad Litem
The role of a GAL in New Mexico is distinct in that they are basically responsible for conducting an investigation and coming up with a resulting report and recommendation. Their findings and conclusions will directly inform the court’s decisions regarding child custody, especially when such cases become prolonged and complicated.
GALs often serve as a sort of “umpire” during difficult custody matters. For example, they serve an important role during relocation cases, in which one parent wants to move to another city or state with the children and the other parent opposes. Their purpose in such cases is to understand the family’s circumstances, determine the best course of action for the child(ren) involved, and advise the court regarding how to proceed in the best interests of the child(ren) they represent.
Understanding Guardian ad Litem Fees
Courts typically do not appoint GALs during divorce, and most divorcing couples choose not to appoint one due to the already challenging task of paying for both of their respective attorneys. When a couple is appointed one, the GAL’s fees are typically shared between the parties either equally or proportional to their incomes when there is a significant disparity in incomes.
Contact Our Family Law Attorneys in Albuquerque Today
At Sandia Family Law, we understand that divorce and child custody proceedings can get very expensive very quickly. In our experience, having a GAL often yields positive results for parents and children alike, and judges typically look for reasonably priced GALs to appoint. We may be able to help you and your family by providing GAL services during your child custody matter, and we may be able to offer you a more affordable price. If you are appointed a representative for your child during a family law case, connect with a member of our team as soon as possible.
Call (505) 544-5126 or click to schedule your confidential consultation today.
Why Choose Us?
WHAT MAKES OUR FAMILY LAW FIRM STAND OUT IN ALBUQUERQUE
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Work With You Every Step of the Way
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Honest & Aggressive Representation
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Focused Strictly on Family Law Cases
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Family Operated Firm
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Over 20 Years of Combined Experience
OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST
Our Testimonials
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"Then you so much for having my back"
Truly I owe you a lot of gratitude. Then you so much for having my back and going to bat for me. Out of the 5 lawyers I have had in this case you (William) were the first who truly made me feel heard today.- C.L. -
"I appreciate your ability to help me"
I appreciate your ability to help me see some of the inner workings of family law and the dynamics of the court system. It is difficult to find peace in proceedings such as divorce, but I find solace knowing I was represented by professionals such as you…- K.W. -
"We appreciate you all very much."
Thank you for your hard work. We appreciate you all very much.- G.W. -
"Million thanks to you and your firm"
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude in everything that you have done for me/us in attempting to gain custody of my granddaughter, Ghianna. Even though things didn't work out the way that I wanted to apparently some good has come out of all this and Ghianna has mentioned that her father has changed for the better. Again, million thanks to you and your firm for what you have done for all of us.- D. R. -
"William, thank you for standing by my side over the years."
William, thank you for standing by my side over the years.- L.S. -
"I would definitely recommend Cortez and Hoskovec to anyone looking to get a divorce."
Pamela was able to get my divorce done in just a few weeks despite a myriad of problems. Despite the problems, she was communicative and kept me abreast of everything during the process. I would definitely recommend Cortez and Hoskovec to anyone looking to get a divorce.- J.W. -
"The firm with a HEART."
Thank you so much for the help you have given me. I am so appreciative. You and your firm have gone above and beyond to help me. I will never forget you, Ms. Faris, or Sabrina. Thank you and God Bless, I will recommend you and the firm. The firm with a HEART.
- M.N. -
"I was very pleased with the outcome!"
Pamela Faris was great! She really cared about my case and wanted to make sure I got everything I deserved. She worked fast and efficiently to resolve my case. I would recommend her and everyone there! I was very pleased with the outcome!- A.C. -
"You are so fair and kind!"
You will get 5 stars and I will recommend you to everyone, you are so fair and kind!- C.V.
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