If you’re in a custody case and the court appoints a Best Interest Attorney (BIA), you may be confused at first. Who is this person? What do they do? And how are they going to affect your case?
In Maryland, a BIA is a lawyer who represents your child’s best interests. That’s the key: they do not represent either parent—or even necessarily what the child says they want. The BIA’s role is to help the court make more informed, child-centered decisions, particularly in cases that are high-conflict, emotionally complex, or where the judge wants more insight into what’s really going on from the child’s perspective.
Wendy S. Meadows has been appointed as a BIA in close to 100 cases since 2008 and has been training other attorneys on this work for the past five years. Her approach is practical, respectful, and child-focused—and she’s known for offering clarity in even the most tangled family dynamics.
What a Best Interest Attorney Actually Does
The BIA’s role is outlined in Maryland Rule 9-205.1 and is similar to a guardian ad litem in other states. The BIA is not the child’s attorney in the traditional sense and doesn’t simply parrot the child’s wishes. Instead, the BIA makes recommendations based on the child’s long-term best interests.
This involves gathering information like school records, therapy notes, medical history, and CPS reports. A BIA may speak with teachers, therapists, doctors, coaches, and other adults who know the child well. They may also work alongside a custody evaluator who assesses each parent’s ability to meet the child’s emotional, developmental, and practical needs.
But the process matters just as much as the data.
Wendy’s Process: Clear, Consistent, Child-Centered
Wendy believes that structure and transparency help families feel grounded during an emotionally difficult time. When she is appointed as a BIA, here’s what happens next:
✅ Secure Intake Forms
Each parent receives a link to complete an online intake form via a secure portal. This gives Wendy essential background information and helps streamline the initial conversations.
✅ Introductory Meeting With Both Attorneys
Wendy starts by meeting with both attorneys (together) to understand the case’s status, any pressing concerns, and the overall tone of the matter.
✅ One-on-One With Each Parent
Next, each parent is offered a private 30-minute meeting with Wendy (with or without their attorney present). This is a chance to share their perspective and voice concerns in a calm, structured setting.
✅ Child Meeting(s)
Wendy then schedules two separate meetings—one with each parent bringing the child(ren) to her office. These meetings are age-appropriate, relaxed, and intentionally low-pressure. Many kids call her “Miss Wendy,” and they may chat over snacks, draw together, or play a simple game while talking. The goal is connection, not interrogation.
✅ Follow-Up As Needed
Depending on what’s best for the child, Wendy usually schedules additional meetings with your child(ren)—like a school visit, a casual meeting for a treat, or a home visit to observe the child’s environment. Every step is tailored to the child’s comfort level and needs.
This process allows Wendy to gather the right information and insights while creating a sense of safety and neutrality for everyone involved.
What (and How) to Tell Your Child
Many parents worry about how to explain the BIA to their children. You don’t want to overwhelm them, but you also don’t want them to walk into a meeting feeling blindsided.
Here’s what Wendy recommends:
The day before your child’s appointment, keep it simple and honest. Try something like this:
“As you know, Mom and Dad are separated, and we’re trying to figure out what’s best for you. We’re working with some professionals to help us with that—and you get one, too. Her name is Wendy (a lot of kids call her Miss. Wendy). She’s here to help you and make sure you have a voice. You can ask her questions. She’s a safe space.”
That’s it. There’s no need to coach your child or tell them what to say—just let them know someone kind and calm will be talking with them, and that it’s okay to be honest.
And after the appointment? Don’t question your child about it. They can share whatever they want, but treat it like a therapy session. It’s confidential. Wendy’s relationship with your child is private and protected, and that’s part of what makes it work.
For Attorneys and Colleagues
If you’re a family law attorney looking to refer or work with a seasoned BIA in a high-conflict case, Wendy brings over 15 years of experience, a child-first lens, and a clear, consistent process that helps everyone stay grounded.
She’s known for being direct but compassionate, thorough but efficient—and she values collaboration with counsel.
If you’re an attorney looking for a thoughtful, experienced BIA who brings structure and clarity to even the most complex matters, Wendy is currently accepting new court appointments. Contact our office to check availability or learn more about her process.
Law Office of Wendy S. Meadows, LLC
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