Mediation, Guardian ad Litem services and Child Welfare Consulting throughout Indiana.
MEDIATION SERVICES
Family transitions are rarely easy. Whether you are facing divorce, parenting disputes or post-decree conflicts, mediation provides an opportunity to resolve disagreements with dignity, respect and greater control over the outcome. I provide mediation services for a wide range of family law disputes, including:
- Divorce and legal separation
- Parenting time and custody disputes
- Child support issues
- Parenting plans
- Relocation disputes
- Modification of existing court orders
- Grandparent visitation and related family matters
- Other domestic relations conflicts appropriate for mediation
Why mediation?
Less Conflict. More Control. Better Outcomes.
GUARDIAN AD LITEM
When families are involved in difficult legal disputes, the court’s greatest concern is the well-being of the child. As a Guardian ad Litem (GAL), I serve as an independent advocate appointed by the court to investigate the facts, gather relevant information and make recommendations based on the child’s best interests.
My role is not to represent either parent or to act as the child’s attorney. Instead, I provide the court with an objective assessment that helps judges make informed decisions affecting children’s lives. As a former juvenile magistrate, I have presided over thousands of cases involving children and families, giving me a deep understanding of child development, family dynamics, and the complex issues that arise in custody, parenting time, abuse & neglect, and other family law matters. As a Guardian ad Litem, I bring the same commitment to fairness, careful investigation and thoughtful decision-making that guided my work on the bench.
As a Guardian ad Litem, I may:
- Meet with the child in an age-appropriate manner.
- Interview parents, guardians and other significant caregivers.
- Communicate with teachers, counselors, therapists, physicians and other professionals involved with the child.
- Review school, medical, counseling and other relevant records as authorized.
- Visit homes and observe the child’s living environment when appropriate.
- Assess the child’s needs, safety, stability and overall well-being.
- Prepare written reports or recommendations when requested by the court.
- Testify in court regarding my findings and recommendations.
Every case is unique. My investigation is tailored to the specific issues presented and the needs of the child. Appointments are accepted subject to court approval, availability and the nature of the case.
CHILD WELFARE AND DCS CONSULTING
There are few things more overwhelming and stressful than being involved in a child welfare case with the Department of Child Services (DCS). With years of experience in the child welfare system, I provide clarity and strategy in:
- Reviewing assessments, case files and service provider referrals
- Preparing parties (including parents and/or caregivers) for CHINS (Child in Need of Services) or TPR (Termination of Parental Rights) proceedings
- Identifying procedural errors or overlooked opportunities
- Strategizing specialized services to support reunification, including utilizing independent providers not compensated by DCS in your case
- Evaluating alternative permanency plans, including adoption and legal guardianship