Heather Louise Milligan

Heather Milligan

The role of Minor’s Counsel is complex. The attorneys who act in that capacity are mandated to advocate for the minor child, and not for either parent, thus at least one parent will invariably feel that we are biased against them, or did not complete our duties in the manner in which they saw fit. We are inherently placed in untenable positions and can only assist the court and the parties in making decisions in the best interest of the minor child(ren) based upon the evidence gathered and data presented. I always meet with my clients and this case was no exception. I also make collateral contacts (including physicians, school personnel and mental health providers as relevant), speak with the parties, speak with their attorneys, review court records, review medical records and CWS (or other pertinent records, if appropriate), and gather any other data that is relevant to assist the parties. I often attend IEP meetings and will accompany students to visit campuses if they are struggling academically. In many cases, the parties are able to reach agreements and litigation is unnecessary, which is what occurred in this case as well. I have a Master of Social Work degree along with my law degree and I have been a Certified Family Law Specialist for approximately 15 of my 20 years practicing. I have a passion for Minor’s Counsel work based upon my background and expertise. I take my duties as Minor’s Counsel very seriously and always take feedback and criticism personally, and to heart, to ensure the best representation I can provide to my clients. I do not guarantee perfection, but I guarantee passion, zealous advocacy, diligence, and genuine compassion, especially about my clients who are minors and deserve to be protected and advocated for in a process in which they did not choose to be in, and in which they want to escape.