Pro-Bono Initiatives

 

Florida Guardian Ad Litem

 

Our office collaborates with the Orange County Legal Aid Society, donating Pro-Bono hours to the organizations. Many people are unfamiliar with the term "Guardian Ad Litem" or as ofter referred to as a "GAL". Attorney Alisha S. Jimenez, Esquire actively works volunteering her time with the Legal Aid Society of Orange County to provide representation for children who cannot speak for themselves. 

 

A GAL while not a known term, plays an extremely important role in court proceedings concerning minor children. A GAL is an attorney that represents the child's best interest in any court proceeding. A GAL is typically assigned in cases where child abuse, neglect or violence is alleged. There job is to ensure the child's needs are met and collaborate with other parties involved in the action. 

 

It is also likely you will see a GAL utilized in Divorce or Dissolution of Marriage actions. Generally, one party retains an attorney and files a petition, then the other party retains an attorney and responds. The children can often be an issue in an action for dissolution of marriage, and often times children can be distracted throughout the court proceedings. 

 

The court may appoint or the parties may hire a Guardian Ad Litem to assist the parties and the court in deciding what is in the best interest of the child. This is generally helpful in cases where their are very young children, shy children, minor step-children and a variety of other areas. For more information about our GAL services click here. .