Sonica Rhodes Cinami

When my attorney first suggested petitioning the court for a Guardian ad Litem, I was extremely uneasy. The idea that someone else could step in and potentially side entirely with the other parent felt like a huge risk, especially because the other parent had full custody and majority time sharing. ... In our case, the mother had full legal custody, had been absent for several years leaving the child with me, and then suddenly re-entered her life seeking major changes like moving 300 miles away. I was concerned that my own frustrations or opinions could overshadow what truly mattered — My daughter’s reality and stability. Sonica spent the majority of her time focused on my child, not on me. She listened carefully, conducted home visits, and evaluated the situation based on facts, consistency, and my daughter’s lived experience — not on adult grievances or emotional arguments. Her report was thoughtful, well-crafted, and rooted in common sense and the child’s best interest. It protected the life and stability my daughter had become accustomed to, and it required changes to be made around her established world, rather than forcing her to be uprooted and start over. While the process was stressful, I ultimately came to respect the role of a Guardian ad Litem when it is done correctly. Sonica’s careful consideration and impartial approach made a real difference for our child. I am grateful for the professionalism, balance, and child-centered focus she brought to a very difficult situation.

As a 12-year-old child, I loved both of my parents and wanted a relationship with each of them. I am autistic, and changes in routine, environment, and emotional dynamics affect me deeply. At the time this process began, I wanted to be with both parents and believed that spending equal time would hel...p everyone. Sonica took the time to truly listen to me. She spent time with me directly, asked thoughtful questions, and focused on what my life actually looked like — not just what adults were arguing about. She understood that I needed consistency, predictability, and fairness, and she considered my feelings without placing adult responsibility on me. Her recommendation created balance and stability by allowing equal time with each parent in a structured, week-on/week-off schedule. That structure mattered to me. After the decision was made, I no longer experienced arguing or conflict around transitions. I moved seamlessly between both homes, my life felt calm, predictable, and safe. Sonica approached her role with care, neutrality, and respect for my voice. She did not rush decisions or favor one side — she focused on what was realistic, consistent, and healthy for me at that time. She gave everyone the opportunity to do the right thing while keeping my well-being at the center. I am now 19 years old, in my first year of college, living independently and thriving. Looking back, I can clearly see how important that period of stability was for my development and confidence. I would encourage parents to understand that the involvement of a Guardian ad Litem is often a response to adult behavior, not a punishment. Accepting and respecting an impartial decision can make a lasting difference in a child’s life. Unfortunately, when bitterness continues, children may feel forced to distance themselves — something that is often preventable when parents truly listen to how their child feels. I am grateful that Sonica listened to me, respected my voice, and helped create a foundation of stability during a very confusing time in my life. Her work had a lasting, positive impact on who I am today.