Guardian ad Litem

As a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) appointed under Washington State law, our role is to ensure that the voices of minors and dependent children are heard and that their needs are prioritized in legal matters. When the court deems it necessary to appoint a GAL, it is because the child's welfare is at stake, and a neutral advocate is required to protect and represent their best interests. We conduct thorough investigations, gathering factual information on parenting arrangements and other critical factors that may impact the child's life. Our findings are then reported to the court, where we advocate for outcomes that align with the child's safety, well-being, and stability. All of our Guardians ad Litem meet the rigorous training requirements established by Washington law, ensuring that we are well-equipped to serve as dedicated and knowledgeable advocates for children. We are appointed by the court to serve as Guardians ad Litem and are also available for private consultation to assist families and legal professionals in matters concerning children’s welfare. At Three Cedars, we are committed to supporting families and the courts in making decisions that safeguard the future of the children we represent.

Guardian ad Litem Report Review & Consultation

In addition to court-appointed GAL services in Clark and Lewis Counties, we offer independent consultations for parties seeking review of a Guardian ad Litem report completed in other Washington State jurisdictions.

This service is designed for parents, attorneys, or other stakeholders who have concerns about the quality, neutrality, or thoroughness of a completed GAL report. Options for engagement may include:

  • A full independent investigation

  • A written review assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the report

  • Identification of potential indicators of bias, omissions, or failure to follow required GAL standards

As officers of the court, GALs must adhere to specific ethical and procedural obligations—including impartiality, professionalism, informed analysis, and timely reporting. If a report appears to lack these standards, we can help identify concerns and provide a professional summary to support your legal strategy or peace of mind.

To explore consultation options, please contact us directly. Availability and scope are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Fees

Court-Appointed Title 26 Guardian ad Litem Services
For cases in which we are appointed by the court under Title 26, fees are typically set or approved by the court. The standard hourly rate is $200. A $3,000 retainer is required at the time of intake, and the court usually determines how fees are divided between the parties.

Independent GAL Services
For privately retained non-appointed services—such as consultations, report reviews, or independent investigations—the hourly rate is $200. In these cases, the full cost is the responsibility of the hiring party or attorney. Retainer amounts vary based on the scope of work and will be discussed in advance. Limited-scope reviews are available in some cases to accommodate specific concerns or budget constraints.