Sarah Zubair, JD

Title 26 Guardian ad Litem, Parenting Evaluation, Mediation, and Parent Coordination Services

Ms. Zubair has extensive experience in parent evaluations, mediation, and related services. She is a Title 26 GAL with the King County GAL Registry and an attorney admitted to practice in Washington State. She is committed to providing comprehensive, balanced, and culturally competent assistance to individuals involved in family law matters.

Commonly Asked Questions:

What's a Guardian ad Litem?

Also referred to as a "GAL," guardian ad litem is a Latin term referring to a guardian for the suit, also known as a legal case. A GAL is appointed to protect the interests of someone who cannot fully advocate for themselves in a legal matter. In family law matters, the GAL’s responsibility is to ensure that the child's best interests are considered by the court.

What's the difference between a GAL investigation and a parenting plan investigation?

While GALs and parenting evaluators perform similar duties, a GAL is appointed as a party to the case. This means they must appear for all hearings and at trial and they also have to sign off on any temporary or final parenting plans that the parents agree to. GALs are typically required to complete a mandatory training in order to be included on the county's GAL registry.

What are parent coordination services?

Parent coordinators are often appointed to cases after a Final Parenting Plan is entered by the court. In some instances, a parent coordinator may also be appointed prior to entry of a Final Parenting Plan. These professionals assist families that have a high degree of conflict or disagreements with better communication, decision-making, and coparenting. They sometimes act as a "referee" before the parties go to alternative dispute resolution or court.