GAL Oversight in Illinois Parallel Parenting Plans

 Posted on November 23, 2025 in Family Law

When Illinois courts face a high-conflict custody case, there is often a shift from cooperative co-parenting to a structured parallel parenting plan designed to limit contact and reduce conflict. Oversight by a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) (750 ILCS 5/506) can shape everything from communication protocols to how exchanges are structured. The GAL acts as the court’s investigator and makes recommendations based on the child’s best interests.

Many parents fail to understand just how far a GAL’s authority extends and how his or her recommendations influence the judge. While the judge will make the final decision on the parenting plan, the GAL’s report carries significant weight. If you are facing decisions in an Illinois family court about the allocation of parental responsibilities (750 ILCS 5/602.7) and parenting time, you should be aware of the importance of the GAL in shaping long-term decisions about how and when you will parent. Having a strong, experienced Will County, IL family law attorney by your side ensures the best outcome for you and your child.

Why Illinois Courts May Choose a Parallel Parenting Model Rather than Co-Parenting

Although co-parenting is preferred, an Illinois court may choose parallel parenting when faced with parents who have exhibited hostility and chronic conflict and who are unable to communicate. In particular, if there has been a history of verbal or emotional abuse and restraining orders, parallel parenting may be ordered. Parallel parenting plans involve very detailed responsibilities, limited communication between parents, and strict scheduling. The primary goal of parallel parenting is to shield the child from the animosity and stress caused by the parents’ conflict.  

How GAL Oversight Interacts with a Parallel Parenting Plan

A GAL, attorney for the child, and a child representative are similar in some ways, but very different in others. The GAL’s primary duty is to investigate and make recommendations based on the best interests of the child. An attorney for the child advocates the child’s wishes, while a child representative is a hybrid of the two, leaning toward the child's best interests or specific wishes.

A GAL is appointed when the court determines that the parents are unable to work together in the child's best interests. The GAL will gather information by examining school records, observing parent-child interactions, and interviewing all parties. The GAL will then provide a report detailing his or her findings and recommendations to the judge and may be called to testify at hearings regarding the information in the report. GAL fees are typically divided between the parents. Parents should be cooperative and prepared to answer questions honestly, while avoiding overt criticism of the other parent.

The GAL will determine whether one or both parents comply with court orders and respect boundaries, whether either parent is making unrealistic scheduling demands, and whether either parent is attempting to sabotage the other parent’s parenting time. Transitions from one parent to the other, rules regarding communication between parents, logistics regarding transportation, pickups, and drop-offs, and which parent should have authority over school and medical decisions may all ultimately be decided by the GAL.

What is the GAL's Role After Parental Responsibilities and a Parenting Plan are in Place?

In some high-conflict cases, a GAL may be reappointed to conduct follow-up investigations if one or both parents are having trouble adhering to the parallel parenting plan. If the GAL determines that one or both parents are not making an effort to follow the parenting plan, the court can modify decision-making authority and parenting time. The GAL may also monitor parental compliance with therapy, parenting classes, or supervised visitations.  

Contact a DuPage County Parenting Responsibilities Lawyer

High-conflict parenting disputes can feel overwhelming, and GAL oversight can become the turning point in determining decision-making and parenting time. If your Illinois case involves a GAL or parallel parenting plan, it is essential that you have a skilled, knowledgeable DuPage County, IL parenting plan attorney from SpyratosDavis LLC by your side. We will advocate for a fair, child-focused outcome, while creating the smartest strategy for you and your child. Call 630-810-8881 to schedule your initial attorney meeting.