In emotionally charged family law cases, children often become the most vulnerable participants—caught between competing adult interests. When disputes over custody, visitation, or parenting plans arise, California law allows for the appointment of a Minor’s Counsel to represent the child’s best interests in court. At M.C. Law, P.C., we’re committed to supporting families through this critical process.

What Is Minor’s Counsel?

Minor’s Counsel is an independent attorney appointed by the court to represent a child’s interests in family law proceedings. This role is especially important in high-conflict situations where the child’s voice might otherwise be overshadowed by the parents’ disputes.

Unlike a lawyer representing a parent, Minor’s Counsel does not advocate for either side—their sole responsibility is to advocate for the child’s health, safety, and well-being.

Why Minor’s Counsel Matters in Family Law Cases

Children can’t always express their needs in a legal setting—or worse, may be pressured or manipulated by one parent. That’s where Minor’s Counsel steps in.

Key benefits of appointing Minor’s Counsel include:

• Ensuring an unbiased perspective is brought before the court
• Protecting the child’s rights and emotional well-being
• Helping the court understand the child's unique circumstances, home life, and preferences
• Reducing the emotional toll on children who might otherwise be drawn into the conflict

Minor’s Counsel provides a professional, child-focused voice in legal disputes that often center around adult concerns.

Who Appoints Minor’s Counsel in Los Angeles?

In California, Minor’s Counsel can be appointed in several ways:

• By request of either parent
• By a guardian ad litem
• At the court’s discretion, if a judge determines it’s necessary

The decision to appoint Minor’s Counsel typically occurs when:

• There are serious custody or visitation conflicts
• Allegations of abuse, neglect, or parental alienation arise
• The child is old enough to express preferences, but needs protection from influence

Judges have wide latitude in deciding when this appointment is appropriate, and it is always based on what is in the best interest of the child.

What Does Minor’s Counsel Actually Do?

Once appointed, the Minor’s Counsel conducts a thorough, neutral investigation into the child’s life and family dynamics. This may involve:

• Interviewing the child, parents, and other key individuals (like teachers, therapists, or extended family)
• Reviewing medical and school records
• Speaking with mental health professionals
• Observing parent-child interactions

The attorney then presents recommendations and factual evidence to the court regarding what living or custody arrangements best serve the child. In some cases, if appropriate, the attorney may also communicate the child’s wishes.

Minor’s Counsel is not bound to follow the parents’ positions—they are guided only by the law and the best interests of the minor client.

How M.C. Law, P.C. Can Help

Whether you’re seeking to request the appointment of Minor’s Counsel or navigating a case where one has already been appointed, M.C. Law, P.C. provides the guidance and advocacy you need. We understand how emotionally charged these situations can be—and we work to ensure that the process stays focused on what’s truly best for your child.

Our team is experienced in:

• Requesting the court to assign Minor’s Counsel
• Responding to Minor’s Counsel inquiries and investigations
• Ensuring your child’s interests are prioritized in all proceedings

Speak With a Los Angeles Family Law Attorney Today

If your custody or visitation case is headed toward litigation, Minor’s Counsel may become a critical part of the process. Let us help you prepare and understand how it works.