Amicus/Ad Litem

Attorney Ad Litem & Amicus Attorney Services in Central Texas

Structured, Independent Representation in Family Court

In certain family law matters, Texas courts appoint attorneys to provide independent representation or evaluation involving the interests of children. These appointments require careful investigation, disciplined analysis, and the ability to explain the judicial process and what a family is experiencing in a child-appropriate manner.

Brittany Lannen serves as Attorney Ad Litem and Amicus Attorney in contested custody matters, CPS cases, and other proceedings where the court determines that independent involvement is appropriate. These roles demand objective assessment, clear reporting, and courtroom readiness.

Every appointment is handled with structured evaluation of the relevant facts, statutory standards, and procedural posture of the case. Conclusions are based on investigation and evidence—not assumption.

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Attorney Ad Litem Representation

An Attorney Ad Litem represents a child’s expressed objectives of representation while also fulfilling statutory duties under the Texas Family Code. This role requires direct communication with the child, investigation of the circumstances affecting the child’s welfare, and participation in court proceedings.

Responsibilities include:

  • Interviewing the child in an age-appropriate manner
  • Reviewing pleadings and relevant records
  • Communicating with parents, caregivers, and professionals
  • Participating in mediation, hearings, and trial

The role requires balanced judgment. A child’s stated preferences, developmental capacity, and overall circumstances must be evaluated carefully within the framework of Texas law.

Clear communication with the counsel for the parties is essential. Findings and positions must be articulated directly and supported by the record.

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Amicus Attorney Appointments

An Amicus Attorney serves as a neutral officer of the court. Unlike an Attorney Ad Litem, an amicus does not represent any party or the child directly, but instead provides independent investigation to determine the best interests of the child regarding conservatorship, possession, and access issues.

This role may involve:

  • Interviews with parents, children, and collateral witnesses
  • Review of educational, medical, and counseling records
  • Observation of parent-child interactions
  • Coordination with professionals when appropriate
  • Written reports or courtroom testimony

The objective is not advocacy for a party, but advocacy for the “best interest of the child” standard under Texas law.

A Disciplined, Evidence-Based Approach

Appointments as Attorney Ad Litem or Amicus Attorney require neutrality, careful documentation, and professional accountability. Each matter is approached with:

  • Careful review of statutory requirements
  • Thorough investigation of relevant facts
  • Clear identification of concerns or risk factors
  • Direct, candid communication with the court

Clarity is essential in child-centered proceedings. Recommendations and positions must reflect evidence, not emotion. Preparation is critical. Whether participating in mediation or providing testimony at trial, all findings are grounded in documented investigation and legal standards.

Attorney Ad Litem & Amicus Services in Central Texas

Brittany Lannen accepts court appointments as Attorney Ad Litem and Amicus Attorney in Central Texas family law matters.

For appointment inquiries or questions regarding availability, contact Lannen Law, PLLC at (254) 301-9195.