How to vet a Guardian ad Litem in Washington State

Parties are often given days to accept or strike a Guardian ad Litem, using a registry entry that lists little more than a name. These are the records you can retrieve yourself before that deadline.

Confirm registry standing

Check the superior court's published registry: the titles the appointee is listed under, the date of listing, and whether the court records any removal or suspension.

Check the published rate and retainer

Compare the rate on file against the county's published range before an appointment is entered. See the King County directory and cost overview.

Search discipline and grievance records

Bar discipline, published grievance outcomes, registry removals, and appellate references are public. Record what you find and where the record is silent.

Ask the questions in writing

Training dates, caseload, methodology, collateral contact policy, and billing terms — asked in writing, they become part of the record.