What is an ad litem attorney?
In divorce cases where the parents cannot come to an agreement over custody issues, the court often appoints an attorney to represent the child. When parents are in turmoil, sometimes they are unable to put aside personal differences. The court appoints an ad litem to provide legal services to the child, and the ad litem has the duties of undivided loyalty, confidentiality, and competent representation.
An ad litem attorney usually charges the same or similar hourly rates as the attorney for each parent. When the court must appoint an ad litem, the parties are required to pay the costs for this representation. In the Houston area, the cost for this attorney could be anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the complexity of the custody case. In very limited circumstances, ad litem attorneys are available through volunteer organizations.
