26.33.070 - Appointment of guardian ad litem -- When required -- Payment of fees.

Appointment of guardian ad litem — When required — Payment of fees.

(1) The court shall appoint a guardian ad litem for any parent or alleged father under eighteen years of age in any proceeding under this chapter. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem for a child adoptee or any incompetent party in any proceeding under this chapter. The guardian ad litem for a parent or alleged father, in addition to determining what is in the best interest of the party, shall make an investigation and report to the court concerning whether any written consent to adoption or petition for relinquishment signed by the parent or alleged father was signed voluntarily and with an understanding of the consequences of the action.

     (2) The county in which a petition is filed shall pay the fees of a guardian ad litem or attorney appointed under this chapter.

[1984 c 155 § 7.]