Free G.A.L

What I need to know is, can I get a GAL (guardian ad lietum) at no cost to me?
I have been told that because my husband requested a GAL, he needs to pay the fee.
The cost of GAL investigator is $1,000.
I do not believe my husband is going to pay the fee. I cant afford to pay for a GAL.

I would also like to know if it is possible to get a divorce, before the custody issues are resolved.? If I can divorce him now (which I am paying for), and he can pay for his stall tactics. Maybe if he's paying for the trips to court he will want to end it soon.
I have considered giving him everything, house, car and property. He says he wants revenge! I believe he wants the children to be taken away from me. I'm doing all the things the temp. order instructs. My husband is not complying at all. What can I do to protect my children from being placed in a foster home? With the accusations he's making against me, I have to prove myself innocent. I believe if we could get he GAL on board, the truth will be heard. I just cant afford the cost of one.

If my husband doesnt pay for the GAL, will courts remove the children and then appoint a investigator?

Usually and in most cases that I have seen, the Ad lietum splits the cost between the two of you usually to be paid within 90 days after the service is rendered.

Another thing I forgot to mention. Relax. It is better for all of the custody issues to be settled during the divorce because of the issues involved and the cost. If you have a pro bono attorney (free) then they usually will take the case if the two issues are contingent on the best interest of the children. You will more than likely be ordered for a psychological study as are the children. If you are getting help from the state for your divorce/custody issues then they might help you pay for this also. It can be quite costly. For heaven's sake, keep you head straight. It won't do any good for you to get upset and give him everything. You will need these things after the divorce to carry on your household. There is a lot of mud/character slinging during a nasty divorce so it would be in your best interest to settle down and act sensibly. It is a frightening experience what you are going through but things will work out eventually. Keep utmost in your mind the best interest of your children because that is what the judge is most interested in. Grownups fight every day but it is the children that have the fallout from a divorce. You said that your husband is not complying with the temporary orders. Make a diary and write everything down. Dates and times and phone calls or the fact that he didn't do or come over when he was supposed to. You can use this in court. Be calm and don't fight over the phone or in person for that matter. You take care of your business as best as you know how and be the best mother you can be.

[This message has been edited by Always searching (edited September 11, 2000).]