About 4 months ago (about 1 week before the scheduled final hearing), my soon-to-be ex filed a motion to have a GAL appointed and a continuance. Both were granted. Shortly after receiving the order, I made and had my appointments with the GAL. My ex made no contact with the GAL until 2 days ago and the GAL's report is due to the attorneys and court in 2.5 weeks. This doesn't appear to leave much time for her to have an appointment, me to have a rebuttal appointment and for the GAL to prepare and submit the report. What are the odds that the hearing will be continued AGAIN? Is there any way to object to the continuance since at least to me, it appears this is an effort to drag out the proceedings since she had 4 months to make contact but didn't? Any advice would be appreciated.

First of all, don't piss off the GAL. Big mistake.

Call and politely ask if the delays on the other side will cause a trial delay. use the excuse you need to get subpoenas out for witnesses. Ask if the GAL needs to see you and/or the child again. Be super nice, and bend over backwards to make this very important person aware your primary concern is your child.

Best wishes,

Sharon

If you have an attorney, let them deal with the Guardian ad litem. You need to be careful to not show any aggression or anger as that may come back to haunt you, so a neutral party like your attorney may be the best party to communicate with the GAL. Also, if you believe the process is being abused, you should make your concerns known to the court or have your attorney make your concerns known and explain why you have the concerns appropriately.