Guardian ad Litem in Florida

At St. Johns Law Group, Attorney Rachael Greene serves as a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem (GAL), advocating for the best interests of children in family law disputes throughout Flagler County, St. Johns County and Northeast Florida. Her dedication to children’s well-being, combined with her legal expertise, makes her a trusted advocate in some of the most sensitive and complex cases.

GAL appointments often occur in matters involving:

• Allegations of abuse, neglect, or abandonment

• Custody and time-sharing disputes

• Adoption or termination of parental rights

• High-conflict divorce or separation

• Cases involving substance abuse or domestic violence

What Does a Guardian ad Litem Do?

As a Guardian ad Litem, our attorneys can provide the court with an independent, child-focused perspective by:

• Interviewing the child, parents, teachers, doctors, and other key individuals

• Reviewing medical, school, and court records

• Preparing detailed written reports with well-supported recommendations

• Appearing in court to present findings and advocate for the child’s needs

Attorney Greene’s approach is informed by her years of experience in family law and her commitment to ensuring every child’s voice is heard and respected in legal proceedings.

Social Investigators in Florida Custody Cases

In addition to Guardians ad Litem, Social Investigators may be appointed by the court in contested custody and time-sharing cases. While GALs represent the child’s best interests, a Social Investigator is a neutral third party—typically a licensed mental health professional—tasked with conducting a comprehensive study of both parents and the child.

Social Investigators:

• Conduct psychological and home environment evaluations

• Interview parents, children, and collateral witnesses

• Prepare a detailed written report with custody and visitation recommendations

• May testify in court regarding their findings

At St. Johns Law Group, our attorneys are highly experienced in cases involving both GALs and Social Investigators and can help you navigate these evaluations with clarity and confidence.

Who May Be Appointed as a GAL?

In Florida, a Guardian ad Litem can be:

• A trained volunteer

• A child welfare professional

• An attorney, like Rachael Greene, appointed by the court

• A qualified adult approved by the judge

Attorney Greene is regularly appointed by family court judges in Flagler County and St. Johns County to serve in this critical role, thanks to her deep understanding of family dynamics and her compassionate, professional demeanor.

Why Appoint an Attorney Guardian ad Litem?

While many GALs are volunteers, an attorney GAL like Rachael Greene brings legal training, courtroom experience, and a deep familiarity with the judicial process. She is especially effective in complex cases involving:

• Cross-allegations between parents

• Mental health concerns

• Special needs children

• Emergency custody or injunction matters

Her legal background enhances her ability to navigate these challenges and provide judges with clear, credible, and child-centered recommendations.

The Impact of a GAL or Social Investigator on Your Case

Whether a Guardian ad Litem or a Social Investigator is involved, their reports can significantly influence the outcome of your case, including:

• Custody and time-sharing arrangements

• Residential decisions

• Mental health or medical care recommendations

• Protective orders or supervised visitation

With attention to detail, thorough written reports and fairness Attorney Greene approaches each case with an eye for helping to provide the Court with a complete picture of the child’s best interests.

 Working With St. Johns Law Group

If your family law case involves the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem or Social Investigator—or if you’re seeking one for your child—St. Johns Law Group offers experienced guidance and representation every step of the way.

Our team will help you:

• Understand the GAL’s role and expectations

• Prepare for interviews and evaluations

• Respond to GAL reports and court recommendations

• Navigate hearings with skilled legal advocacy

Areas We Serve – St. Johns Law Group

At St. Johns Law Group, we proudly serve clients throughout Northeast Florida, offering trusted legal counsel with a local focus and regional reach. Our attorneys represent individuals, families, and businesses in communities across:

• St. Augustine
• St. Augustine Beach
• Ponte Vedra Beach
• Nocatee
• Vilano Beach
• Fruit Cove & Julington Creek
• World Golf Village
• Crescent Beach
• Palm Valley

We also handle cases in Duval, Flagler, Clay, and Putnam Counties.

Contact us today.