Alabama § 26-10E-21 - Legal Counsel; Guardian Ad Litem.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 26-10E-21 — Legal Counsel; Guardian Ad Litem., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26-10E-21. Legal Counsel; Guardian Ad Litem.
(a) In making adoption arrangements, potential adoptive parents and biological parents may obtain counsel to provide legal advice and assistance.
(b) When required by this chapter, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for the adoptee, any mentally incapacitated person, or a minor. In cases in which a guardian ad litem is not required by this chapter, upon a motion of a party or on its own motion, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for good cause shown.
(c) The fees of the guardian ad litem shall be assessed by the court and taxed as costs upon the conclusion of services provided by the guardian ad litem; provided, however, that in contested cases under Section 26-10E-23, the court shall assess and award the guardian ad litem a fee at the time of appointment based on the reasonable amount of fees expected to be incurred. The fees shall be payable by the contestant and the petitioner proportionately as determined by the court, subject to the authority of the court to revise the amount or proportionate responsibility for the fees upon entry of the final judgment adjudicating the contest.
(d) The court shall have the power to enforce any award of fees to the guardian ad litem through contempt or other enforcement proceedings.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 26-10E-21
What does Code of Alabama § 26-10E-21 cover?
Section 26-10E-21 ("Legal Counsel; Guardian Ad Litem.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 26-10E-21?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 26-10E-21" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 26-10E-21 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.