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GAL Report

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Mr. Everyday

Junior Member
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Massachusetts

Does anyone know if you can appeal a GAL report? The one I got was not horrible, but the conclusions didn't really fit the body of the report. I know this can be contested in court, but is there another way before it gets to trial?

Thanks.

Mr. Everyday
 


Mr. Everyday

Junior Member
Gal

What is traditionally done in order to contest a GAL report? I have a lawyer, and they tell me this is what trial is for. It just seems to me that this (hiring a GAL) is the way the system works. I am just looking for a way to gain ground which doesn't require smashing the very system you are trying to sway.

Thanks.
 

LdiJ

Senior Member
What is traditionally done in order to contest a GAL report? I have a lawyer, and they tell me this is what trial is for. It just seems to me that this (hiring a GAL) is the way the system works. I am just looking for a way to gain ground which doesn't require smashing the very system you are trying to sway.

Thanks.
Your lawyer is right. The only way to contest a GAL report is to challenge it at trial. However, judges do rely heavily on the recommendations of GALs, and it can be difficult to challenge them. Not impossible, just difficult.
 

majomom1

Senior Member
Your lawyer is right. The only way to contest a GAL report is to challenge it at trial. However, judges do rely heavily on the recommendations of GALs, and it can be difficult to challenge them. Not impossible, just difficult.
I agree, the lawyer is correct. The GAL will have to testify in court. OP's attorney needs to question all of the findings and have any discrepancies explained - on the record.

What does your attorney say about the report and the conclusions? He may have had some experience with this GAL... or should have resources to verify their reputation. If the discrepancies are big, he should be able to tell you whether or not he can raise any doubt, or challenge.
 

Mr. Everyday

Junior Member
Recommendation

The GAL has a stellar reputation, though the intern who did the work is... well... an intern. There are many discrepancies. The conclusions just don't gel easily from the body. Also: Much verification was not done, and where it was done, it was professionally related people with a kinship to the spouse. These people spoke often to my spouse about the details of the pending divorce.

It is amazing that this cannot be considered tampering, but I guess it cannot.

Lies will drown me.

The truth sets me free.
 

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