In Rhode Island, a Guardian ad Litem is usually an attorney who has been appointed by a Rhode Island court to represent the child(ren) in a legal dispute that concerns their custody or welfare. The court appoints a guardian to be objective in the investigation and recommendation as to what would ultimately be in the best interests of the child(ren) in terms of custody, visitation and other matters.

By representing the best interests of Rhode Island (RI) child(ren), the guardian is empowered to investigate their entire background, living conditions, and family relationships in order to make a recommendation for their future to the court. Guardians make home visits; speak with counselors, pediatricians, neighbors, school officials, teachers, law enforcement, friends, and anyone else who might provide them with pertinent information. The guardian generally meets with the child(ren) several times to ensure that their interests are both correctly heard and well-represented.

The guardian presents a report to the Rhode Island (RI) court recommending a specific outcome with regard to the child(ren). The parents do not have to accept the report – rather, they can present their own witnesses and evidence in court. The Judge makes the final determination on the disposition of the child(ren). The Guardian’s report often times leads to settlement of the issues without the expense of a trial.

Click here to read about Kerry Rafanelli’s work as a Guardian ad Litem.