What is the primary role of a guardian ad litem in Ohio family law cases?

The primary role of a guardian ad litem (GAL) in Ohio family law cases is to represent the best interests of a child. This role is critical in custody and parenting time disputes, where a child's well-being is central to the court's considerations. The GAL conducts investigations, interviews relevant parties (including the child, parents, and sometimes family members), and gathers information about the child's circumstances. By doing so, the GAL provides the court with a comprehensive view of what arrangement might serve the child's best interests, ultimately guiding the court's decisions in these sensitive matters.

This role is distinct from that of a parent’s representative or a mediator; a guardian ad litem's focus is solely on the child's welfare rather than any individual parent's interests or facilitating negotiations between parents. They do not directly assist in the divorce process itself, but rather concentrate on safeguarding and advocating for the child's rights and needs within the context of any family law proceedings.