Recently, our supreme court recognized the importance of this role by adopting a rule which requires training for lawyers as GAL in family court actions. The importance of the GAL cannot be overstated. Much thanks is due to the members of the GAL committee, the board of directors and to all lawyers who undertake this task. We hope that these guidelines are of assistance in the performance of their duties. The role of a GAL is one of great importance in Wisconsin.
Courts rely heavily on GALs in making their rulings on custody and placement issues.
However, the role of the GAL finds minimal definition in statutory or case law. Therefore, the guidance of experienced GALs as expressed by the State Bar Family Law Section is necessary. The ultimate responsibility for the well-being of children, of course, lies with the parents. Their behavior and the presence or absence of conflict will have a far greater effect on their children than any involvement of the GAL or order of the court. In drafting these guidelines, the Committee has drawn upon the statutes, case law and its members' collective experience.