Opinion ID: 864512
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: whether a guardian ad litem was required.

Text: ¶21. Because the child’s best interest is our “polestar” consideration, the importance of guardian ad litem appointments in child custody proceedings cannot be overemphasized. In any proceeding regarding a change of custody or visitation we must be mindful of the child’s best interest. Miss. Code Ann. § 9-5-89 (Rev. 2002) provides in pertinent part: The court may appoint a guardian ad litem to any infant or defendant of unsound mind, and allow him suitable compensation payable out of the estate of such party, but the appointment shall not be made except when the court shall consider it necessary for the protection of the interest of such defendant; and a decree or judgment of any court shall not be void or erroneous because of the failure to have a guardian ad litem. The appointment of a guardian ad litem allows for the child to be represented and for the child’s voice to be heard by the court through an independent party. ¶22. In child custody cases where allegations of abuse are at issue, it is mandatory that a guardian ad litem be appointed. Miss. Code Ann. § 93-5-23 (Supp. 2002) provides in pertinent part: The court may investigate, hear and make a determination in a custody action when a charge of abuse and/or neglect arises in the course of a custody action as provided in Section 43-21-151, and in such cases the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem for the child as provided under Section 43-21-121, who shall be an attorney. ¶23. Carol alleged physical abuse by Thomas in her petition for a change of custody. The Chancellor ordered the Department of Human Services to investigate these allegations, but did not appoint a guardian ad litem for Brittany. Unless the allegation of child abuse is withdrawn, the chancellor should appoint a guardian ad litem prior to the hearing which we order today. 12