Guardian ad Litem in Colorado
(GAL)
Need a Guardian ad Litem in Colorado? As a former magistrate, I provide court-appointed advocacy for children and vulnerable adults who need an independent voice in legal proceedings. My Guardian ad Litem services in Colorado include thorough investigations and independent recommendations that help courts protect vulnerable individuals.
What Does a Guardian ad Litem Do in Colorado?
As a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem, I serve as an independent advocate who represents the best interests of children or incapacitated adults in legal proceedings under Colorado law. My role involves conducting thorough investigations, interviewing relevant parties, and providing impartial recommendations to help courts make informed decisions that protect vulnerable individuals' welfare and rights.
When Is a GAL Appointed in Colorado Cases?
Colorado courts appoint Guardian ad Litem services in various situations including contested custody cases, child abuse and neglect proceedings, adoption matters, and adult guardianship cases. If you're dealing with disputes where a child's best interests are unclear, when abuse or neglect allegations arise, or when incapacitated adults need protection from exploitation, my GAL services provide essential advocacy during these sensitive legal situations.
What to Expect from The GAL Process
My GAL work begins with comprehensive case review and initial interviews with all relevant parties. I'll conduct thorough investigations including home visits, school consultations, medical record reviews, and interviews with children, parents, caregivers, and other significant individuals in the child's life. My investigation concludes with detailed written reports containing specific recommendations based on factual findings and Colorado legal standards.
Types of GAL Cases
Child Custody
Help courts determine appropriate parenting arrangements when parents cannot agree or when children's safety concerns exist. My Guardian ad Litem work focuses on evaluating each parent's ability to meet children's physical, emotional, and developmental needs while ensuring the child's voice is heard in the process.
Adult Guardianship
Protect incapacitated adults from exploitation while ensuring their rights and preferences are considered in guardianship proceedings. My role involves evaluating proposed guardians and recommending appropriate levels of protection and autonomy that respect the individual's dignity and remaining capabilities.
Sorensen Appointments
Under the landmark case In re Marriage of Sorensen, 166 P.3d 254 (Colo. App. 2007), Colorado courts may appoint a Guardian ad Litem for adults in domestic relations and other civil proceedings when specific criteria are met. Courts must first determine if an individual:
Is mentally impaired so as to be incapable of understanding the nature and significance of the proceedings
Is unable to make decisions in their own behalf
Lacks the ability to communicate with and act on the advice of counsel
Is mentally or emotionally incapable of weighing counsel's advice on the particular course to pursue in their own interest
Once a court determines these Sorensen criteria are met and a Guardian ad Litem appointment is necessary, I may be appointed to provide essential advocacy and ensure vulnerable adults receive proper representation and protection throughout their legal proceedings.
Who Pays for a Guardian ad Litem in Colorado?
In Colorado, the use of a Guardian ad Litem is typically determined by the court, but that doesn’t always mean it’s covered by the state. In many cases, the parties involved are responsible for paying the GAL’s fees, either split between them or assigned based on the judge’s discretion. However, in some cases, the state may pay a set statutory rate to the selected GAL.
If you’re involved in a high-conflict custody dispute or a complex matter where the court appoints a GAL, you can expect to pay private hourly rates, unless you qualify for state assistance or legal aid. The court will consider each party’s financial circumstances before finalizing who pays—and how much.
When choosing a private GAL like Bradley Law, clear fee structures are discussed upfront so you’re not left guessing. Our transparent pricing can be found on our Fee Schedule.
Why Choose Bradley Law for YOUR Guardian ad Litem?
With a decade of judicial experience presiding over complex family law and protective proceedings, Amanda Bradley brings a unique perspective to Guardian ad Litem work that few attorneys can offer. Having evaluated countless GAL reports and recommendations as a Colorado magistrate, she understands exactly what courts need to make informed decisions about vulnerable individuals.
This background translates into more effective advocacy when conducting investigations that will withstand judicial scrutiny and preparation of reports that clearly communicate findings. Serving clients from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs and throughout the Denver metro area, Bradley Law established reputation and understanding of local court practices help ensure your Guardian ad Litem appointment receives the attention it deserves.
Is a Guardian ad Litem needed in your case? Contact us today or schedule a consultation to discuss court appointment procedures and learn how Guardian ad Litem services can ensure proper advocacy for children or vulnerable adults in your legal matter. I'm here to provide the independent voice they need during these challenging times.
Explore all services from Bradley Law to support families and vulnerable adults.
Guardian-ad-Litem (GAL) FAQs
What does a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) actually do?
A GAL is a court-appointed advocate whose job is to represent the best interests of a child or protected person in legal proceedings. They investigate the facts, interview parties and professionals, review records, and make recommendations to the court—especially in custody disputes, dependency cases, or probate matters involving incapacitated adults.
Is a GAL the same as an attorney for the child?
Not exactly. A GAL represents the child’s best interests, not necessarily what the child wants. They are often attorneys, but they do not act as the child’s legal counsel. Their role is to provide the court with an unbiased assessment, even if that differs from the child’s expressed preferences.
When is a GAL appointed in Colorado?
GALs are typically appointed in cases involving:
- Allegations of abuse or neglect
- High-conflict custody battles
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Guardianships or conservatorships
- Disputes involving incapacitated adults or vulnerable individuals
The court steps in when it needs a neutral voice focused solely on the person’s well-being.
How much does a Guardian ad Litem cost in Colorado?
Fees vary depending on whether the GAL is a state-funded appointment or a privately retained professional. In private cases, GALs usually charge hourly rates, which are typically split between the parties unless the court decides otherwise. Costs are discussed in advance so there are no surprises. You may review our current Fee Schedule here.
Can I choose my own Guardian ad Litem?
In most court-appointed cases, the judge selects the GAL, often from an approved list. However, in some private matters—especially in probate or non-Dependency & Neglect family cases—the parties can agree to retain a private GAL, like Bradley Law, if the court approves the selection.
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This website does not provide legal advice and is for informational purposes only. Using this site or commumicating with Bradley Law through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Bradley Law (Amanda J. Bradley, Attorney at Law PLLC) is a separate, independent Colorado mediation and legal services practice and is not affiliated with the legal firm referred to as Bradley (Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP).
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