What to Expect When Attorney Shepard Is Appointed as Guardian ad Litem

If Attorney Allison Shepard has been appointed as Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in your case, you may be wondering what happens next. For many parents, this is their first experience working with a GAL, and the process can feel unfamiliar.

The purpose of this page is to help you understand what a Guardian ad Litem does, what you can expect from the process, and how our office handles GAL appointments. While every case is different, the general process is outlined below.

First, What Is a Guardian ad Litem?

A Guardian ad Litem is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the child. Attorney Shepard does not represent either parent. Instead, her role is to independently investigate the issues affecting the child and make recommendations to the court regarding what she believes is in the child's best interests.

This means that Attorney Shepard is not "on Mom's side" or "on Dad's side." Her responsibility is to the child and to providing the court with an objective assessment of the facts.

Step 1: Court Appointment

The process begins when the court signs an order appointing Attorney Shepard as Guardian ad Litem.

Once the appointment is received, our office opens a file and begins the intake process. You will typically hear from our office within a short period of time regarding next steps.

Step 2: Paying GAL Deposit - Clerk of Courts

In Eau Claire County, parties are generally required to pay an initial Guardian ad Litem deposit through the Clerk of Courts as directed by the court's order. Please review your specific court order regarding payment requirements.

The court will determine:

  • The amount of the deposit

  • Which party is responsible for payment

  • When payment is due

The Clerk of Courts collects these funds and disburses them to our office as GAL services are performed. Information regarding payment of your GAL Retainer to the Eau Claire County Clerk of Court is available HERE.

Prompt payment helps avoid delays in the investigation process.

Step 3: Intake Questionnaire

Each parent will receive a detailed questionnaire from our office.

The questionnaire helps Attorney Shepard obtain important background information, including:

  • Family history

  • Information about the child(ren)

  • Current custody and placement arrangements

  • Areas of disagreement

  • School information

  • Medical and mental health information

  • Safety concerns

  • Contact information for individuals who may have relevant information

Please complete the questionnaire carefully and honestly. The more complete your responses are, the more efficiently Attorney Shepard can begin her investigation.

Step 4: Initial Parent Meetings

After reviewing the questionnaires, Attorney Shepard will schedule an individual meeting with each parent.

During these meetings, you will have an opportunity to:

  • Explain your concerns

  • Discuss your proposed placement or custody arrangements

  • Provide relevant information and documentation

  • Identify witnesses or collateral contacts

  • Ask questions about the GAL process

Parents are encouraged to focus on facts, the child's needs, and potential solutions rather than simply listing complaints about the other parent.

Step 5: Additional Investigation

Every family is different, and every GAL investigation is different.

Depending on the issues involved, Attorney Shepard may:

  • Review court filings and prior orders

  • Review school, medical, counseling, or other records

  • Speak with teachers, therapists, doctors, and other professionals

  • Contact family members or other individuals with relevant information

  • Meet with the child or children, when appropriate

  • Review communications, photographs, and other evidence

  • Conduct home visits when necessary

Not every case requires every step. The scope of the investigation depends on the issues presented and the information needed to make informed recommendations.

Step 6: Communication During the Case

Parents may continue to provide relevant information as the case progresses.

To help ensure an efficient process, we ask that communications remain:

  • Respectful

  • Professional

  • Child-focused

  • Relevant to the issues before the court

Please remember that Attorney Shepard cannot provide legal advice to either parent. Her role is to represent the child's best interests, not either party's position.

Step 7: Recommendations

Once sufficient information has been gathered, Attorney Shepard may make recommendations regarding issues such as:

  • Legal custody

  • Physical placement

  • Decision-making authority

  • Parenting schedules

  • Counseling or supportive services

  • Other matters affecting the child's welfare

Many cases resolve after the GAL's recommendations are known. If a case proceeds to a hearing or trial, Attorney Shepard may provide recommendations directly to the court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Attorney Shepard represent my child?

Attorney Shepard represents your child's best interests, which is different from serving as the child's personal attorney or advocating for the child's stated preferences.

Will Attorney Shepard meet with my child?

In many cases, yes. Whether and how children are involved depends on their age, maturity, and the issues presented in the case.

Can I send information directly to Attorney Shepard?

Yes. Parents are welcome to provide relevant information and documents. Organized, concise, and child-focused submissions are generally the most helpful.

Will the judge follow Attorney Shepard's recommendations?

Not necessarily. The judge makes all final decisions. Attorney Shepard's role is to provide an independent recommendation based on her investigation and assessment of the child's best interests.

How do I pay for the GAL Deposit?

In Eau Claire County, you will pay the Clerk of Court. Information regarding your payment will be in your order. Additional information regarding payment to Eau Claire County Clerk of Court can be found HERE.

A Message from Attorney Shepard

"I understand that family court proceedings can be stressful, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming. My goal as Guardian ad Litem is to conduct a thorough and fair investigation, treat all parties with respect, and help the court make decisions that serve the best interests of the child. The process works best when everyone remains focused on the child's needs, communicates honestly, and approaches the case with a willingness to work toward solutions that support the child's long-term well-being."

We look forward to working with your family and helping move the case toward a resolution that promotes stability, safety, and success for your child.