Family Law Term

GAL (Guardian Ad Litem)

Definition

A person (usually an attorney) appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child during custody proceedings. Interviews the child and makes recommendations.

Related terms

Filing Fee
The cost to file documents with the court. In NJ, filing fees range from $25-$300 depending on the type of case. Fee waivers are available for those who qualify.
Forensic Evaluation
A court-ordered psychological evaluation of one or both parents and/or children. Conducted by a licensed forensic psychologist. Results are presented to the judge.
Hearing
A court proceeding where both parties present arguments and evidence to a judge. Can be a motion hearing, a plenary hearing (mini-trial), or a final hearing.
Imputation of Income
When a court assigns a higher income to a parent who is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed for child support calculations. Based on education, work history, and job market.
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